Rep. Ron Estes on Government Shutdowns, Cashless Bail, and Senate Appointments

Approaching Government Shutdown

• 🗓️ Lawmakers face a critical deadline in less than two weeks to prevent a government shutdown before the end of September.
• 📉 A continuing resolution (CR) is likely, despite its drawbacks, due to a long-standing habit of not passing appropriations on time.
• ⚠️ CRs are problematic as they hinder planning and prevent the inclusion of important provisions, such as those needed for military procurement.

Executive Orders on Crime and Bail

• ⚖️ President Trump signed executive orders targeting cashless bail in DC and across the country, threatening to revoke federal funding from jurisdictions that allow it.
• 🚨 The order also criminalizes burning the American flag, with a potential year in jail if it results in violence or incites a riot.
• 🏘️ The cashless bail system is criticized for creating a revolving door for criminals, leading to increased crime in cities.
• 🇺🇸 The federal government has ultimate responsibility for the District of Columbia, and cashless bail has contributed to a decline in safety and appeal.

Senate Appointments and Blue Slips

• 🏛️ The Senate is criticized for blocking key appointments, hindering the president's ability to staff the executive branch.
• 📜 The