LI Politicians React To Federal Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC — With Congress unable to agree on funding, the federal government shut down operations at midnight on Thursday. The last shutdown was in 2019, under President Trump's first term. When it ended after 35 days, it was the longest in history.

Some federal agencies are expected to furlough workers during the shutdown, while others, like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, will remain active, CNN said.

Democratic Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY 04) blamed Republicans for refusing to negotiate a bipartisan federal funding package.

"This shutdown could have been prevented and Americans would have benefited if House Republicans governed responsibly. I hope Republicans change course and work with us to negotiate a bipartisan agreement that extends the critical tax credits that allow Nassau County families to afford health care," Gillen said in a statement.

However, the Republican leadership on Capitol Hill is referring to this situation as the "[Chuck] Schumer Shutdown," for Senate Minority Leader.

"‘My way or the highway’ is no way to run a government in a democracy. Negotiating is how you keep a government open, not stonewalling the other side," said Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03).

Suozzi suggested a three-point plan for Democrats and Republicans to foster a deal. He said the government needs to reopen as soon as possible, extend expiring health care premium tax credit and "stop the unilateral cuts and chaotic threats from the White House to issue mass firings and budget slashings if the Democrats don’t kowtow," the congressman said.

A lengthy shutdown could have an "impact on my Long Island and Queens constituents will be real and painful: federal workers missing paychecks, small businesses waiting on federal contracts, and seniors facing uncertainty with access to services they count on," Suozzi added.

On the other side of the aisle, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY 01) said on X: "I didn't cause this shutdown, but I'm withholding my pay until our troops are paid. Rep. Tom Suozzi and Rep. Laura Gillen, who voted against status quo funding, should do the same."