Representative Mike Flood (R-NEB.) expressed that recent mass shootings of federal workers during the government shutdown highlight what he perceives as a “bloated government.”
He suggested that it could be reasonable to implement “some cuts,” though he acknowledged the challenge of understanding the broader impacts on the country and his own community until more detailed plans are available.
“From my district’s viewpoint, we’ve got quite a few airmen at Strategic Command in Bellevue, Nebraska,” Flood mentioned during a Thursday night segment on CNN’s “The Lead.”
“They are undeniably part of national defense, so I’m not overly concerned about them. However, food inspectors will continue working, and there are indeed some cuts. We have a bloated government.”
Plans from the Trump administration involve cutting thousands of federal positions amid the shutdown and placing a freeze on federal grants.
“It’s likely to involve thousands. That’s an important question. It’s something the management and budget office, along with the White House, is clearly focused on today,” he noted.
Russell Vought, the executive and budget director, has put funding for New York City’s subway and tunnel projects on hold, and he also revealed intentions to cancel $8 billion in funding for energy projects across 16 Democratic states.
Flood received praise for his stance and criticized Democrats over the funding gaps.
“As chairman of the Main Street Caucus, I’ve had consistent discussions with him. They’ve been very focused. They recognized the essential services the government must provide to safeguard property and health among other areas.”
“So, it shouldn’t come as a shock that we’ve reached this point. This situation is entirely avoidable,” he added. “All that’s needed is for them to extend the budget they’re already backing in the Senate.”
