Democratic Mayors Association Statement on a Potential GOP Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Democratic Mayors Association (DMA) issued the following statement in response to the potential GOP government shutdown: 

“As our country sits at the brink of a devastating government shutdown, Americans should know this is entirely in the hands of the GOP and as a result of their inability to prioritize the needs of the people. House Republicans are fully capable of keeping the government open, operating and delivering the vital resources communities depend on. 

As Mayors, we do not have the luxury of shutting down our cities when we disagree with our peers. We stay at the table and get things done. There is far too much on the line for Republicans to put our cities, the economy, and national security at risk. It’s time they put people, not politics, first and keep the government open.

Instead, the House GOP is threatening to hold Americans hostage by reneging on the bi-partisan agreement made with President Biden and Congressional Democrats on the bipartisan budget deal. Democrats have done all they can to avoid a shutdown and keep critical services running. Extreme House Republicans want to play political games while Americans’ livelihoods are on the line.

With Republicans refusing to do the bare minimum, disastrous consequences lie ahead – including jeopardizing nearly 7 million vulnerable moms and young children who rely on vital nutritional assistance programs and forcing servicemembers and others who keep our country safe to do so without pay. 

This GOP shutdown is avoidable, irresponsible and damaging. House Republicans should do the job they were elected to do - serve the American people."

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