A group of Grand Junction locals aren’t leaving quietly. Since July 2, dozens have staged a sit-in outside Congressman Jeff Hurd’s office, hoping to push him to reject the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ before it reaches the House floor.

Tensions Rise as Sit-In Grows

Each day, from 8 A.M. to 8 P.M., people line the sidewalk. Some sit on folding chairs. Others hold hand-painted signs. A few just stand in the heat, chatting with neighbors. But they all share one goal: convince Hurd to vote no.

Deb Bailey, a local mom and caregiver, didn’t mince words about what’s at stake. Her family relies on Medicaid and SNAP. “To give fortunes in tax breaks away to billionaires at the expense of the working poor… it’s not humane,” she said.

No one’s certain how big the crowd will get by July 4, but the message is already loud.

The Bill’s Broad Reach Sparks Fear

Why the uproar? The ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ — which squeaked through the Senate on July 1 thanks to a tie-breaker — isn’t just about one thing. It folds together policies on healthcare, immigration, and energy. For some, that sounds like a powder keg.

Supporters claim it’s a giant leap for the nation’s economy and security. Opponents say it’s a raw deal for working families.

One local resident summed up what many fear: “If they gut Medicaid and SNAP, what happens to my disabled son? Or my neighbors?” she asked, voice cracking.

Local Business Owners Weigh In

It’s not just families showing up. Small business owners are in the mix too.

Michal Matyjasik, who owns a shop downtown, said the bill could hurt local businesses more than help. “I’m an independent business owner and a concerned citizen,” he said. “The Big Beautiful Bill is really bad for business.”

So far, there’s been no sign that local business coalitions will get involved formally, but the worry is spreading. After all, when neighbors worry about losing benefits, they don’t spend much downtown.

Congressman Hurd Stands His Ground

While Hurd hasn’t appeared at the sit-in, he did send a statement. He’s made his position pretty clear.

“The OBB will unleash American energy dominance, deliver tax cuts for middle class Americans, and ensure our southern border is safe,” he wrote. “It is a major step towards a stronger, more secure America.”

It’s classic politics — two sides looking at the same bill and seeing two totally different futures.

Protesters Say They’re Not Budging

Some residents are packing water bottles, lawn chairs, even coolers. The plan is to keep the sit-in going until the Fourth of July, rain or shine.

One local organizer shared how they’re keeping spirits up:

• Rotating shifts so nobody gets exhausted

• Bringing shade tents for the midday sun

• Sharing snacks and cold drinks to stay hydrated

Many say they’re prepared to come back if the House vote doesn’t go their way.

Big Stakes, Small Town Impact

What happens if the bill passes? Depends who you ask.

For folks like Deb Bailey, the fear is real: a safety net pulled out from under families like hers. For small businesses, it could mean fewer customers with disposable income. And for Hurd’s supporters, it’s about re-energizing the local economy and tightening the border.

The fight has split neighbors who used to stand on the same side of other issues. Some residents worry this might linger, leaving a mark long after the sit-in ends.

One protester sighed, “We just want our voices heard. Whether he listens? That’s up to him.”