John Thune on Government Shutdown: Democrats Holding People Hostage

Continuing Resolution and Democratic Opposition

• 📌 Senator John Thune states that Senate Democrats have indicated they will vote against the House Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government open.
• 🎯 He emphasizes that the House has passed a bill that is ready for the Senate and the President's signature.
• ⚠️ Thune places the responsibility on Senate Democrats, stating they will have to explain why the government shuts down if they vote it down.

Accusations of Hostage-Taking

• 🚨 Thune accuses the "far left" of hijacking Democrat leadership and holding the American people hostage.
• 💰 This is allegedly to attach a "laundry list" of "left-wing priorities" to the CR.
• 🤝 He states that Republicans are willing to discuss concerns, such as premium tax credits, but not in the context of a "hostage situation."

Responsibility for Government Shutdown

• 🏛️ Thune reiterates that the CR is a routine measure that has been passed for a long time.
• 🗣️ He asserts that Democrats are the ones who need to "release the hostage" if they wish to avoid a shutdown.