ROCHESTER — A rally held outside the Rochester offices of U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith on Wedneasday urged the Democratic lawmakers to withhold their votes for a budget deal unless funding is restored to Medicaid and food assistance and other priorities.

“We call on Sen. Klobuchar (and Sen. Smith) to use their power, to use their influence, to use their leverage to reverse these harmful cuts and safeguard our rights,” said the Rev. Jan Wiersma, who served as emcee at the Sept. 24 rally.

Some 70 people chanted and hoisted signs that read “No Budget Without Health Care,” “Fight For Food Assistance,” and “Say No To Oligarchy.” The demonstration was organized by the progressive group ISAIAH.

Currently, Congress needs to pass a continuing resolution by Wednesday, Oct. 1, to avoi

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