Fetterman Warns Against Government Shutdown Amid Hurricanes

In Washington, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has raised concerns about the potential government shutdown as two hurricanes approach the East Coast.

Fetterman, a Democrat, criticized previous partial shutdowns, asserting that letting funding lapse could jeopardize the response efforts for Hurricane Hambert, a former Category 5 storm, and tropical storm Imelda. “If there’s a Cat 5 storm looming over us, why are we even having this discussion?” he remarked during an appearance on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures.” He expressed hope that the government won’t shut down.

Should Congress fail to secure funding for fiscal year 2026 starting October 1, a partial shutdown could take effect after 11:59 PM on Tuesday.

Democratic leaders are pushing for key compromises from Republicans regarding health policy, aiming to prolong COVID-related subsidies under the Affordable Care Act and to roll back certain Medicaid reforms.

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Hambert upgraded to Category 5 over the weekend but was downgraded to Category 4 by Sunday morning, although it’s still moving out to sea.

If a shutdown happens, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would face restrictions on renewing or selling major flood insurance contracts. While most FEMA staff would continue working during a partial closure, dwindling resources could hinder effective responses to urgent natural disasters.

Recently, Fetterman was the only senator to back two short-term funding measures, known as Continuing Resolutions (CRs), in an effort to avert shutdown. He supported both a “clean” CR with Republicans and one that aligns more closely with Democratic priorities, which could offer crucial wins in health policy.

Given the need to meet the Senate’s 60-vote requirement, Republican support is essential. Although the House passed a CR backed by Republicans, the CR favored by Democrats did not pass.

Fetterman stated, “I believe shutting down our government is always a mistake. It’s a fundamental obligation. I consistently vote against it.” He emphasized accountability on both sides, saying he will place blame where it belongs.

Meanwhile, President Trump is set to meet with top Congressional leaders on Monday to discuss the impending shutdown, coinciding with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—a meeting that Fetterman endorsed, praising Trump’s support for Israel.

“Overall, I’m pleased with the way the president has supported Israel,” Fetterman commented regarding the attack on Iran’s nuclear facility. He also noted the desperate situation Palestinians face, which he finds troubling.