Hoyer Statement on Congressional Republicans Shutting Down the Federal Government

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after Republicans in Congress shut down the federal government for the second time in less than five years:

“It’s an extreme understatement to say I am disappointed that Republicans failed to work with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown. Keeping the government funded and open is the most basic responsibility of a governing party. Yet time and time again, Republicans continue to show their inability to govern. Instead of working in a bipartisan basis with Democrats last year to responsibility fund the government for this fiscal year, Republican leaders wasted months passing their partisan tax bill and attempting to take health care away from thousands of Maryland families.

“Make no mistake – Republicans control all levers of government, and it is their responsibility to govern. Due to their inaction, over 800,000 federal employees, including over 62,000 in the Fifth District, are facing furloughs, and important serviceswill be significantly curtailed. Shutting down the government is unnecessary, costly, and harmful to our economy and national security.

“I will continue to urge Republicans to work with Democrats and come to consensus to fund the government. Congress must work expeditiously to reopen the federal government.”