Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gluters criticized Democrats after 44 of them voted to block House spending plans just hours ahead of the deadline, asserting that they are “solely responsible for this government shutdown.”
The Democrats opted not to back the straightforward bill proposed by Republicans, insisting instead on extending discussions around healthcare, especially concerning pandemic-era Obamacare subsidies.
“Democrats are solely responsible for this government shutdown,” Gluters reiterated. “They are withholding vital funding for veterans, seniors, law enforcement, and working families in order to push through a broad agenda that would cost over a trillion dollars.”
He went on to criticize Democratic leaders, stating that they are prioritizing healthcare for undocumented immigrants and other issues he views as improper use of taxpayer money.
According to Breitbart News, the Democrats’ strategy of expanding Obamacare subsidies during the pandemic is projected to cost taxpayers $1.5 trillion, which he believes reflects poorly on their priorities.
“They have nothing to battle at the moment,” acknowledged Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) in a remark before the shutdown.
“Under President Trump and the current Republican Congress, we’re making progress. We’re countering their extreme agenda, tightening border security, and removing illegal immigrants. There’s a focus on healthcare issues from the left,” he noted.
He added that if Republicans seem to be attacking healthcare, which is usually a defended issue for them, it could shift public perception.
Polls indicate that a significant portion of the public blames Democrats for the shutdown. A recent New York Times/Siena Poll revealed that 65% of registered voters oppose shutting down the government to meet their demands.
