Joe Kernen Challenges Sen. Peter Welch on Government Shutdown

Joe Kernen, host of CNBC’s Squawk Box, took to the streets to criticize Sen. Peter Welch for his role in blocking Republican measures aimed at resolving the government shutdown.

Kernen confronted Welch (D-Vermont) about his party’s use of the shutdown as a tactic to negotiate changes to Obamacare, urging “reasonable” senators to reconsider their stance. “You’ve always been reasonable, and I’ve acknowledged that. Still, it seems you agree we shouldn’t shut down the government,” he remarked to the senator.

Kernen questioned whether Republicans would resort to similar tactics for things like the Inflation Reduction Act, suggesting this approach was misguided. “This isn’t the right way to do it,” he added.

In defense, Welch argued that clear communication with Republicans on improving Obamacare was necessary, especially as insurance premiums are anticipated to rise across the nation.

Wednesday marked the 29th day of the government shutdown, a result of ongoing gridlock in Congress. While the House approved a short-term funding measure, Senate Democrats have consistently blocked attempts by Republicans to pass a clean spending bill, insisting on the inclusion of health-related issues.

Kernen pressed further, questioning the morality of not compensating TSA workers. “Is this the way to do it?” he asked. “This feels like blackmail!” He pushed for Welch’s thoughts on the human implications of the shutdown.

In response, Welch pointed out that he had co-sponsored a measure with Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) aimed at ensuring funding for SNAP during the shutdown.

Welch also raised concerns about the Trump administration’s attacks on federal healthcare funding.

Republicans have repeatedly suggested that Democrats should allow a spending bill to pass to end the shutdown and subsequently vote on expanding Obamacare subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of the year.

The upcoming month could bring more challenges for funding programs like SNAP, which provides vital support to millions of low-income Americans. Moreover, other essential programs, such as WIC, are facing similar funding issues. The situation has led to dissatisfaction among TSA agents and air traffic controllers, who are being asked to work without pay.