Fetterman Critiques Fellow Democrats Over Funding Bill Votes

Senator John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) expressed frustration on Friday towards his fellow Democrats for their repeated opposition to the government reopening bill, which jeopardizes crucial aid programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The party has been steadfast in demanding an extension of health care benefits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in exchange for backing a continuing resolution led by Republicans. As funding has been stalled for 32 days, tensions are rising on both sides.

“Americans have no leverage,” Fetterman remarked to CNN’s Manu Raju just before SNAP benefits were set to expire. “This isn’t a sleazy game show about winning.”

He added, “We really need to get better at this and just reopen.”

Although he dismissed rumors about switching parties, Fetterman criticized party leadership for encouraging Democrats to vote against the stopgap measure. He expressed concern for both his constituents and the wider American public suffering from the shutdown, and voiced support for House Republicans’ straightforward continuing resolution (CR).

“What happened here last month is a total failure,” Fetterman stated. SNAP funding was anticipated to run out soon, and health care premiums were likely to increase as ACA tax credits expired. “Now, everything is starting to fall apart.”

He went on to consider the challenges faced by parents. “Imagine trying to keep the fridge stocked and lunches ready when the resources your kids rely on are vanishing. We can’t even agree to get things moving again.”

The Senate has failed to meet the 60-vote requirement to advance the CR and fund the government on thirteen occasions so far.

President Trump urged Senate Republicans on Thursday to abolish the filibuster and pass the bill with a simple majority. “It’s time for Republicans to play their trump card and move forward with the so-called nuclear option. Abolish the filibuster and abolish it now!” he stated.

However, some senators have cautioned against such drastic changes. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., reaffirmed his support for the filibuster despite the president’s call. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) also expressed strong opposition to repealing the rule.

“The filibuster encourages us to seek common ground in the Senate. Power may change, but principles should remain,” Curtis noted.

As Senate Republicans explore strategies to reopen the government, Fetterman mentioned earlier this month that the funding issue should be resolved without too much difficulty.

At the Kennedy Center, he remarked, “I follow the country, then I party.” He expressed a desire to discuss health care subsidies, denouncing the shutdown as detrimental for the country. “I can’t support shutting down the government.”