One issue that shouldn't come down to politics is reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. The 1994 legislation acts as one of the leading pieces of legislation in the fight against domestic violence and sexual assault, and it has historically been supported by people of all political affiliations, being reauthorized in 2000 and 2005 with strong support from both Republicans and Democrats.
But now, because of new language supporting the LGBT community and immigrants, not one Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee voted in favor of it.
The bill would prohibit individuals from being denied help because they are gay or transgender, and would allow special visas for undocumented individuals who are domestic violence victims, which would enable them to safely come forward.
Please tell the Senate Republicans to put politics aside and join the effort to combat these issues, protecting women.
I am writing to you all to ask that the Violence Against Women Act be reauthorized. It is one of the most important parts of the nation's fight against sexual assault and domestic violence, and has not only been backed by politicians on both sides of the aisle, but also has strong support from those that work with victims and law enforcement.
This is not a time to let politics get in the way of what is important for Americans. Please put politics aside and help protect women.
