McGovern, House Democrats Vote Again to Reopen Federal Government

Statement

This week, House Republicans again rejected legislation to end the shutdown and fund the government until Feb. 1 -- which would give the president and Congressional leaders time to find a compromise on border security without holding unrelated federal agencies hostage.

This was the seventh piece of legislation House Democrats have brought forth to immediately open the government and end this shutdown for the 800,000 Americans who have either been furloughed or are working without pay.

"It's unconscionable to me that Mitch McConnell and the White House think that shutting down our government and endangering the health and safety of the American people is a good idea," said McGovern.

"I'm ready and willing to debate smart ways to secure our border-- but I'm not willing to allow our entire political system to be held hostage over a wall that Mexico was supposed to pay for, and which the people of this country do not want.

"Let's not forget that for thousands of people in Massachusetts, this shutdown isn't political -- it's personal. Farmers are facing uncertainty. Hardworking public servants are struggling to pay bills, rent, student loans, and even to put food on the table. Many are now being forced to return to work without pay, so they can't even get a temporary job to pay their bills. Just today, I heard from several small business owners in Massachusetts who are now in serious financial jeopardy because they can't get food inspected or food labels approved.

"The House of Representatives has passed a bipartisan compromise bill that reopens the government and provides for smart, effective border security. The President can bang his fists on the table all he wants -- but prolonging this shutdown and rejecting bill after bill to reopen the government is making us less safe. The White House and Senate Republicans need to grow up, do their job, and reopen the government so that hardworking public servants across the country can do their jobs and get paid for their work."

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