Fetterman Discusses Filibuster and Government Shutdown

On Tuesday, the 21st day of the government shutdown, Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania shared his thoughts with reporters about the ongoing situation. He pointed out that Democrats had initially aimed to abolish the filibuster, yet now find themselves appreciating it.

Fetterman expressed this sentiment at the Capitol after a query about Republican senators’ proposals to bypass the filibuster to reopen the government. “We campaigned against the filibuster, and now we’re defending it,” he remarked, acknowledging the shift in position. He further stated, “I don’t want to hear Democrats complaining about the filibuster. We all voted for it—myself included.”

Concerns About the Shutdown

Fetterman emphasized the necessity of reopening the government so that Americans can access vital assistance from programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He noted, “America is losing out” due to the shutdown, and it’s crucial to get things back on track.

Earlier, on September 19, House Republicans had voted along party lines in favor of a government funding bill. This continuing resolution is meant to extend federal funding for another seven weeks, allowing Congress additional time to negotiate a long-term funding agreement for the upcoming fiscal year.

Fetterman also expressed concerns that Democrats face the risk of sending the “wrong message” with threats of government shutdown amid funding disputes.

Despite the urgency, progress seems stalled in the Senate as a minimum of a few Democrats are required to meet the 60-vote threshold to break the filibuster. Since the House approved the bill, Senate Democrats have reviewed it eleven times.

Currently, three members of the Senate Democratic Caucus have sided with Republicans, yet projections suggest that at least five more votes will be needed for the bill’s passage.