Speaker Johnson Responds to Questions on Government Shutdown and House Recess

House Recess Amidst Government Shutdown

• 📌 The Speaker was questioned on why the House remains in recess, a month after its last session, while the government shutdown continues.
• 💡 The Speaker defended the recess, stating that House Republicans are actively working on appropriations and other legislative matters behind the scenes.

Republican Strategy and Constituent Support

• 📊 The Speaker cited a high level of support within the Republican conference for the current strategy, claiming 98.7% agreement.
• 🎯 House Republicans are reportedly engaged in their districts, assisting constituents in navigating the crisis created by the shutdown.
• 🏥 Members are helping constituents access funds for rural hospitals, a program established on July 4th with no Democratic support.

Blame and Call to Reopen Government

• ⚠️ The Speaker attributed the shutdown to Chuck Schumer and the Democrats, stating that the "Schumer shutdown" causes significant pain to real people, including veterans and the elderly.
• 🗣️ He urged Democrats to "come to their senses" and vote to reopen the government, emphasizing that this is necessary for legislative work to continue.
• 🗓️ The Speaker noted it was day 13 of the shutdown and expressed hope that it would end the following day, presenting it as the Senate Democrats' next opportunity to resolve the issue.
• 🤝 Once the government is reopened, the Speaker indicated a willingness to engage in partisan disputes and discussions on remaining end-of-year issues.