GOP Highlights Past Democratic Opposition to Government Shutdowns Ahead of Key Vote

FIRST ON FOX: House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana is ramping up pressure on House Democrats just hours before a crucial vote intended to prevent a partial government shutdown this week.

A newly released video clip, running just under two minutes, serves as a supercut featuring prominent Democratic lawmakers asserting their long-standing opposition to government shutdowns. The consequences of such actions, including office closures and mass furloughs, are clearly emphasized.

The video opens with a statement that reads, “House Democrats have long warned about the consequences of a government shutdown.” This is followed by a clip of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi from California, who, during a press conference, declares, “We believe in governance. We want to keep government open. A shutdown is very serious.”

In another segment, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York states emphatically on the House floor, “It is not normal to hold 800,000 workers’ paychecks hostage. It is not normal to shut down the government when we don’t get what we want.” A strong message about the impact of a government shutdown.

The video concludes with a stark message displayed on a black screen that poses the question, “What’s changed? Now Democrats want to shut down the government to try to stop President Trump.” This sets the stage for a significant escalation in the ongoing political battle between Democrats and Republicans regarding a plan endorsed by President Trump and GOP leaders aimed at averting the partial shutdown.

Johnson expressed his viewpoint in a written statement to Fox News Digital, saying, “Democrats have railed against government shutdowns. But now they’re supporting one. They’re willing to do anything to stop President Trump from implementing his agenda.” This statement underscores the heated rhetoric surrounding the upcoming legislative vote.

Details on the Proposed Legislation

The 99-page bill, introduced by House GOP leaders over the weekend, seeks to fund the government through the end of fiscal year 2025, concluding on September 30. By extending the government funding levels from fiscal year 2024, Republican leaders are celebrating this as a significant victory. This strategy aims to maintain federal spending without the anticipated increases typically associated with full-year congressional appropriations bills.

Dubbed a continuing resolution, or CR, this bill is scheduled for a House-wide vote on Tuesday afternoon. However, strong opposition from Democrats clouds its passage.

Democrats’ Strong Opposition

Democratic leaders have vehemently criticized the proposed legislation, especially after failing to receive guarantees that it would include measures to constrain Trump’s authority, particularly concerning government spending. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, representing New York, conveyed a joint statement with other Democratic leaders focusing on their concerns.

Jeffries stated, “The partisan House Republican funding bill recklessly cuts healthcare, nutritional assistance, and $23 billion in veterans benefits. Equally troublesome, the legislation does nothing to protect Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid, while exposing the American people to further pain throughout this fiscal year. We are voting No.” This reflects the serious reservations held by Democrats as the vote approaches.

Republican Response to Criticism

House GOP leadership aides indicated over the weekend that the bill also includes an additional $6 billion allocated for veterans’ healthcare. Furthermore, Republicans have rejected accusations that the legislation impacts Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, stating that these mandatory government programs cannot be significantly altered during the congressional appropriations process.

The Challenge Ahead for Republicans

Despite the efforts by House Republican leaders to push the bill forward, they face a considerable challenge. Passing the legislation with minimal Democratic support appears to be an uphill battle. As of Tuesday morning, at least half a dozen Republicans have expressed uncertainty about the bill or outright opposition.

Despite these obstacles, GOP leaders expressed confidence in the bill’s passage throughout Monday. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana assured, “We’re going to plan to move it tomorrow,” indicating a determination to advance the proposed funding measure.

A Political Landscape Marked by Tension

This situation illustrates the current political landscape marked by tension between the two major parties. As lawmakers navigate these complex issues, the ramifications of a potential government shutdown loom large. The stakes are high, not only for the legislators involved but also for the American public who depend on government services.

The upcoming vote will not only influence future funding levels but also set the tone for the political discourse leading into the next election cycle. Both parties appear committed to their respective positions, suggesting that the ongoing debate over government spending and shutdowns will remain a focal point in American politics.