Washington D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees, released the following statement on today’s government shutdown:
“Today, Congress failed its fundamental duty to fund our government — a responsibility enshrined in Article 1 of the Constitution. This failure to lead lies solely with the Republican majority.
Republicans control the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives. It is their duty to govern and craft a budget that supports our nation’s economic, physical, mental, and civic health. We Democrats have stood ready to do just that.
Instead, three times this fiscal year, the Congressional Republicans proposed a temporary budget in service of President Trump — who fomented the last government shutdown, the longest in our nation’s history.
Even more appalling is the fact that House Republicans are nowhere to be seen, at home or vacation. The failed leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson telling his members not to return to Washington.
Now, our military must serve without pay, essential federal agencies must work without adequate staffing, and our global standing is further diminished.
I’m fighting to ensure that nearly 20,000 of my constituents don’t lose their healthcare as a result of Republicans’ cruel cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act. I urge every one of my colleagues to fight for a budget that reflects our values — one that lowers costs; strengthens healthcare; and supports America’s families, businesses, and children.”
Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.
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