Urgent Call from Treasury Secretary Amid Government Shutdown

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appealed to Senate Democrats on Wednesday to take action to end the ongoing government shutdown, warning that it “could start costing the U.S. economy up to $15 billion a day.” His remarks came during a briefing at the Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., where he was joined by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Bessent encouraged “moderate Democrats” to step up and make “very simple decisions” that could transform them into “heroes.” He expressed appreciation for their presence during the shutdown, saying it was time for them to break away from what he called a “nest of radicalism” and prioritize the needs of the American people. He noted, “We are starting to step up here.”

An economic consultant, appointed by former President Trump, reiterated the potential cost of the ongoing shutdown, stating it might lead to losses of up to $15 billion daily. Following this press conference, which occurred after a TV interview with CNBC, Bessent placed the blame for the shutdown—now in its 15th day—squarely on the Democrats.

“This is a decision that Democrats are making,” he continued during the conference. He suggested that there was a lack of accountability for the Democrats, partly because mainstream media doesn’t report them in the same light, especially if Republicans are also seen as complicit in maintaining the shutdown.

Meanwhile, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson from Louisiana pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of Democrats who previously protested government shutdowns. He showcased a video outside his Capitol office, emphasizing this point just before the deadline to pass the Continuing Resolution expired.

“This is a very simple decision,” Bessent remarked. He referenced Johnson’s clean Continuing Resolution and mentioned how three Democrats had backed it. Bessent’s message to the moderate Democrats was clear: “Be a hero and restart the government for the American people.”