Republican Senator JD Vance suggested that Republicans should be willing to threaten a government shutdown in order to push for changes ahead of a funding deadline. He criticized the current spending on foreign wars, foreign aid, and border security, arguing that there needs to be more oversight of government programs. Vance questioned the purpose of a non-functioning government and called for a shutdown to benefit the American people, as Congress faces a Sept. 30 deadline to fund the government.
Former President Donald Trump also called for a shutdown if election security assurances are not met in the budget bill. However, House Republicans had to cancel a vote on a spending bill tied to an elections overhaul amid opposition within the party. Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need to fund the government responsibly and ensure secure elections. Democrats have pushed for a “clean” spending bill to fund the government through March, past the presidential election and inauguration.
Vance expressed his opposition to continuing resolutions, preferring the traditional appropriations process to review and question government spending. He highlighted concerns about the distribution of funds to organizations like the Taliban and the impact on border security. Although Vance has not voted as Congress returned from recess, he emphasized the need for a functional government that prioritizes the American people.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com