During a recent C-SPAN call, Speaker Mike Johnson was confronted by a Republican military spouse worried about the government shutdown’s impact on her family’s financial well-being and access to healthcare. Despite her pleas, Johnson deflected blame onto Democrats, prompting criticism for his response. Reports indicate that Democrats and some Republicans are pushing for legislation to ensure military pay during the shutdown, which Johnson is currently blocking. The article emphasizes the disparity between the financial security of Congress members and the struggles faced by military families as the shutdown continues.
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The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) has criticized the recent government shutdown and revealed a $1.8 trillion federal deficit for the fiscal year 2025. CRFB President Maya MacGuineas expressed concern, noting that the national debt is unsustainable and recommending extending spending caps and enforcing fiscal rules. Furthermore, the CRFB highlighted the urgent need to address the insolvency of Medicare and Social Security, and proposed establishing a fiscal commission to reduce deficits. The analysis emphasizes the need for bipartisan cooperation to enact sustainable fiscal policies, as echoed by financial figures such as Ray Dalio, who cautions against relying on debt-fueled growth.
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AP News reports that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) received a $300 million infusion from the Trump administration this week, mitigating potential funding issues during the government shutdown. This program, which supports over 6 million low-income mothers and children, was at risk of running out of money due to the shutdown. The administration utilized unspent tariff revenues to keep WIC operational, allowing states like Alaska and Washington to continue funding their programs. Critics have pointed out that both the White House and House Republicans have previously sought to cut the program.
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Congress erupts at Trump’s shutdown mass firings: “This is a disaster”
Let’s be frank: the news coming out of Washington is, well, a mess. The recent reports of mass firings of federal workers orchestrated during the government shutdown have predictably ignited a firestorm of outrage on Capitol Hill. The sentiment seems to be a mixture of disbelief, anger, and a hefty dose of “we told you so.” This isn’t just a policy disagreement; it’s a full-blown crisis, according to many. The firings, reportedly happening en masse, have been widely condemned as a blatant power grab and a devastating blow to the stability of the federal workforce.… Continue reading
Speaker Mike Johnson has publicly criticized the upcoming “No Kings” rally, alleging it is a “Hate America” event designed to prolong the government shutdown. He suggested the rally, planned for October 18th, is supported by pro-Hamas and antifa groups, with some House Democrats even promoting it. Johnson expressed strong frustration, implying that the event’s perceived impact on reopening the government is detrimental to citizens. He presented this stance during a recent interview on Fox News.
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House Republican leaders have canceled all scheduled votes for the following week, extending the period of inactivity as the government shutdown continues without a resolution. Speaker Mike Johnson announced the cancellation, citing a lack of progress in negotiations and a demand that Senate Democrats work to reopen the government. This prolonged recess is intended to pressure Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to concede to the GOP’s position, however, Democrats remain firm in their opposition, calling for bipartisan talks and accusing Republicans of inaction. The decision also delays the swearing-in of Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, a move Democrats have criticized as politically motivated.
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The Democratic strategy should focus on highlighting the consequences of the government shutdown, emphasizing both job cuts and the controversial figure of Vought. Democrats should draw parallels to the unpopular DOGE initiative, emphasizing the potentially more devastating impact of the shutdown on federal employees, with an estimated 750,000 being furloughed. Furthermore, it is crucial to educate Americans about Vought’s Christian nationalist ideology and views, which are considered un-American due to their potential violation of constitutional principles, particularly the separation of church and state.
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Democrats fume as Mike Johnson cancels third week of votes. It seems like the recurring theme here is a mounting frustration, a sense of incredulity, and frankly, a lot of anger emanating from Democrats and concerned citizens as House Speaker Mike Johnson continues to postpone votes. This isn’t just about delaying a single piece of legislation; it’s about the systematic shutdown of the legislative process, week after week. The implication is a deliberate obstruction of government business.
The most immediate point of contention seems to be the repeated cancellation of votes, particularly the vote to swear in a new Democratic congresswoman.… Continue reading
Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the House will not reconvene until the government shutdown ends, intending to pressure Senate Democrats to support the GOP-led stopgap spending bill. Johnson canceled previously scheduled House votes and announced the cancellation of the upcoming Tuesday session, with further cancellations expected. This decision has drawn criticism from Democratic leaders, who are demanding negotiations for a bipartisan spending bill. Johnson denies these actions are politically motivated, citing the need for lawmakers to assist constituents during the shutdown.
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During a C-SPAN call, a Republican voiced profound disappointment in her party, specifically criticizing the Speaker for not reconvening the House to address the government shutdown, fearing her children’s essential medication would be jeopardized. The Speaker, in response, deflected blame onto Democrats. Another caller, a Democrat, criticized the shutdown and addressed concerns about the deployment of troops within the United States, framing the situation as an internal conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood