Democrats Face Backlash Over Government Shutdown Delay

By Newsmax Wires | Friday, 31 October 2025 09:08 PM EDT

Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., accused Democrats of prioritizing political gain over American citizens during a Friday interview with Newsmax, as the government shutdown entered its 31st day. Harris criticized Democratic leaders for delaying a vote to reopen the federal government until after Tuesday’s elections in Virginia and New Jersey.

He highlighted the impact on millions of Americans relying on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, stating, “41 million people are not going to have their food stamps tomorrow.” Harris argued that key labor unions, including the Teamsters and the American Federation of Government Employees—traditionally aligned with Democrats—are urging the party to act.

“Their message is clear: just pass a clean continuing resolution,” Harris said, referring to the legislative measure needed to fund government operations. He emphasized that Senate Democrats could end the shutdown immediately by voting to reopen agencies, noting that SNAP benefits would be distributed by Sunday if Congress acted swiftly.

The shutdown began after Senate Democrats blocked a House-backed continuing resolution that included funding for SNAP benefits through Nov. 21. Instead, they are demanding changes to include Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire at year’s end. Harris condemned the delay, calling it “ridiculous” and accusing Democrats of blaming Republicans for the crisis despite having previously voted to avoid a shutdown.

He also criticized Democratic efforts to force the president to use reserve funds for SNAP benefits, warning that such actions risk leaving millions without aid during emergencies. “Their plan is anti-Trump,” Harris said, asserting that Democratic priorities are driven by partisan opposition rather than public interest.