Rep. Tom Cole Criticizes Democrats for Government Shutdown and Hostage-Taking

Government Shutdown and Its Impact

• ⚠️ For 42 days, the federal government has been shut down, causing millions of workers to go unpaid.
• ✈️ Air traffic control functions have significantly slowed, and SNAP benefits have expired, forcing millions to seek food bank assistance or go hungry.
• 🧑‍🍼 Seniors have seen tele-health resources suspended, and Head Start education programs for children have been closing.

Democratic Leadership's Role

• 🏛️ The House passed a continuing resolution to keep the government open, but Senate Democrats blocked its passage, leading to the longest government shutdown in history.
• 🎯 Representative Cole states that Democrats, led by Hakee Jeff and Chuck Schumer, intentionally chose to shut down the government, holding the country hostage.
• ♟️ The American people have borne the brunt of this decision, described as being used as pawns by Democrats.

Resolution and Future Appropriations

• ✅ The measure before the committee aims to end the shutdown and move forward with the FY2026 appropriations process, returning to regular order.
• 🤝 The legislation includes three bipartisan appropriations measures for military construction, veterans affairs, legislative branch, agriculture, rural development, and FDA.
• 💰 These bills ensure full-year funding for crucial programs, including military construction, veterans' medical programs, Capitol Police, and the WIC program.
• 🚫 Republicans have restored an open line-by-line process, breaking the "end of the year holiday omnibus habit."

Reopening the Government

• 💡 Reopening the government will end the chaos inflicted by Democratic leadership and ensure SNAP funds are available.
• 🧑‍✈️ It will reestablish control of the skies, pay federal workers and military personnel, and allow the government to continue providing critical services.
• 🙏 Cole hopes that the consequences of this shutdown will prevent future political stunts.