GOP Lawmaker Accuses Democrats of Inflicting Suffering Through Government Shutdown Stalemate

By Newsmax Wires | Thursday, 06 November 2025 07:29 AM EST
Rep. Troy Downing, R-Mont., claimed Democrats are “inflicting pain” on Americans by blocking a simple continuing resolution to reopen the government, telling Newsmax, “It’s crazy to think about because this was such a simple bill to simply continue existing spending for seven weeks.”

Downing argued that five Democratic lawmakers crossing the aisle could end the shutdown immediately, stating, “Let’s actually just get five more reasonable Democrats to sign this simple continuing resolution. Get the government open and end this pain.” He criticized Democrat leaders for using the spending fight to push unrelated issues like Affordable Care Act tax credits, saying, “Let’s have these conversations in committee hearings with stakeholders, not use it as a leverage point that is causing lack of pay for our military, for our federal workers.”

The congressman warned of broader consequences, citing reports of 10% of air travel being affected due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. He rejected claims the GOP was responsible for the stalemate, noting, “When people say, is this a Democrat or Republican shutdown, look at those 14 votes. It was open the government or don’t open the government, and see who voted for what. That tells you the whole story right there.”

Downing accused Democrat Minority Leaders Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., of prioritizing politics over the American people after they sent a letter to Republicans and President Donald Trump following Tuesday’s elections. “They’ve made it completely about politics,” he said. “They are willing to put the American people in pain to have people suffer, worrying about whether SNAP payments are going to come through or workers are getting paid.”

When asked about Trump’s calls to end the Senate filibuster, Downing acknowledged frustration but emphasized the need to preserve the institution, stating, “If you’re in the minority, you’re hoping you have it so you can slow things down when needed. I think maintaining that institution is long-term important for the country.” He urged the GOP to “hold the line” to protect fiscal responsibility and democratic process.