Fetterman Critiques Democrats Over Shutdown Impact on Federal Workers
Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, openly criticized his party on Friday, suggesting that Democratic leadership prioritizes political maneuvering over the welfare of federal employees.
According to a report from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the shutdown has compelled several agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Emergency Management Agency, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to implement “emergency protocols.” During an appearance on “On the Record with Greta Van Susteren,” Fetterman pointed out that he uniquely opposed the shutdown, cautioning that its continuation would harm workers without making any real progress on policy issues.
“I was the only Democrat who stood firm against shutting down the government. That’s not right. Sure, many want changes to ICE, but that shouldn’t affect people’s jobs,” Fetterman remarked, highlighting the long lines at airports nationwide.
He continued, reflecting on a recent incident in Michigan involving a man linked to Hezbollah attempting an attack on a synagogue, which underscores the security concerns exacerbated by the shutdown. “DHS isn’t just about TSA; it also relates to cyber security and so much more,” he noted.
Earlier this month, an individual drove a truck filled with explosives through a synagogue’s entrance in Michigan. Reports later indicated that the attacker had familial ties to a Hezbollah leader.
Fetterman also expressed frustration with his fellow Democrats’ willingness to prioritize political objectives over public safety. “To me, it seems like Democrats are hesitant to tell their supporters, ‘We need to reopen.’ I’ll be collaborating with the new secretary, Markwayne Marine. We see eye to eye on many homeland security matters,” he added. He emphasized the need to restart DHS operations and ensure employees are compensated to enhance national safety.
On Friday, the Senate was unable to end the partial government shutdown, marking a second failed vote within the year due to policy disagreements among Democrats. With a low turnout and a 47-37 vote, the chamber did not achieve the required 60 votes on the 35th day of the DHS shutdown, leaving TSA workers unpaid during a peak travel season.
Interestingly, Fetterman was the only Democrat to back the government reopening, while the rest of his party remains aligned in blocking full DHS funding until there are substantial changes made to ICE and CBP.
