Columbia News

Rep. Mark Alford, who represents Missouri’s 4th district in the U.S. Congress, used his social media platform on October 16, 2025, to address ongoing concerns about a government shutdown and its effects on families and healthcare providers.

In a post published at 13:07 UTC, Alford commented on the impact of the shutdown on federal nutrition assistance programs. He wrote, "Trick or treat, Families need to eat. But Schumer’s shutdown Keeps WIC off the street. 7M moms & kids depend on it. Thankfully @POTUS is keeping them afloat while the Left blocks new funding by continuing the Schumer Shutdown."

Later that day at 15:10 UTC, Alford updated followers about his activities during what he referred to as "day 16 of the Schumer Shutdown." He stated, "On the road again… It's day 16 of the Schumer Shutdown. The Left continues to grandstand while @HouseGOP continues to work. My team & I are headed to visit struggling rural hospitals in MO-04 today. Reminder that all of our offices are OPEN. Schumer is holding America".

At 15:56 UTC, Alford shared details from a visit to Saint Mary’s Hospital in Blue Springs, where he met with staff and discussed healthcare policy challenges. He posted, "Visited Saint Mary’s Hospital in Blue Springs to meet with Kelly Pearce and hospital staff. During the tour, we learned about their day-to-day operations and the challenges they face under current healthcare policies. Staff shared concerns about how certain Medicare Advantage".

Alford has served in Congress since 2023 and succeeded Vicky Hartzler as representative for Missouri's 4th district. Born in Baytown, Texas in 1963 and currently residing in Lake Winnebago, Alford holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin (1988).