Suzan DelBene: House Republicans Should Be Ashamed

The following is Congresswoman DelBene's Statement on the Government Shutdown.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Suzan DelBene issued the following statement today after the House Republicans’ refusal to consider a clean continuing resolution to fund the federal government. As a result of Congress’ inaction, the nation will experience a government shutdown for the first time in seventeen years:

“House Republicans should be ashamed of themselves for playing politics at the expense of American families and our nation’s economy. They refused to allow a vote on a clean budget bill, despite all indications that it would have passed with bipartisan support. Because of their unyielding and extreme demands, House Republicans have forced the federal government to shut down.

“For months, leaders in the House have been unwilling to negotiate with the Senate on a long-term budget. As a result of their reckless behavior, critical loans to small businesses will be frozen. Housing loans to low and middle-income families will be stalled. Pregnant women, new moms and young children could lose vital nutrition assistance. 

“For as long as this unnecessary shutdown occurs, hundreds of thousands of public servants will be working without pay. When sequestration began earlier this year, I returned 8.2% of my salary back to the Treasury, and for the duration of this shutdown, I will return the remainder of my personal salary as well. 

“Families, children, seniors, veterans and businesses across Washington state are counting on all members of Congress to work together and do their job. I will do everything I can to bring House Republicans to the table. We must end the brinksmanship and do the responsible thing, re-open the government and work on a long term budget.”