These cuts halted naloxone distribution, overdose prevention efforts, mental health and substance abuse support in schools, and substance abuse recovery programs. The cuts affected nearly all discretionary funds, accounting for nearly $2 billion of SAMHSA’s budget. Less than 24 hours later, US health officials countered and began reinstating the funding to mental health and substance use programs. Some programs received notice of reinstatement on Wednesday night, while others are waiting for an official notice that they can resume work.

For decades, the Fed’s separation from political pressure has been treated as a foundation of economic stability, dividing expert-backed monetary policy from short-sighted political goals. If that barrier comes down, the aftershock will be felt well beyond Washington, causing further public distrust in the government.

Regardless of political beliefs, a life lost at the hands of the state should never be met with indifference or applause. The death of Renée Nicole Good should not be treated as a political weapon, but rather as a loss of a life that demands careful rumination.