Reed Urges President Trump Not to Force a Federal Shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC - After President Trump ordered Congressional Republicans to continue rejecting any Democratic input on a continuing resolution, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

"President Trump controls every branch of government and his failed policies are about to cause insurance premiums to spike upwards of 75 percent for tens of millions of Americans, with millions more set to lose their coverage and access to health care in the weeks ahead. There is urgent need for bipartisan action, but instead, President Trump is forcing a government shutdown.

"Since taking office, President Trump has enriched himself and his cronies while his tariffs fuel inflation and his policies drive up the costs of everything from food to electricity to medicine for everyday Americans. He has ignored Congress, flouted the law, and his partisan enablers refuse to provide real checks and balances that the Framers established.

"Democrats are seeking to responsibly fund the government and protect your health care. I urge President Trump not to force a government shutdown.

"If the government shuts down, it's because Donald Trump puts his personal grievances first and wants to further test the limits of his power. We already know a Trump shutdown would be costly, wasteful, and needlessly disruptive. A shutdown should be avoided, but Democrats can't force Trump to put the needs of Americans above his own whims.

"I will continue working to reach a principled compromise that helps save your health care. And I am ready and willing to help negotiate a binding bipartisan solution that puts our country on a stronger, more secure, and prosperous trajectory.

"Regardless of whether the Trump Administration shuts down the government and causes millions to lose or pay more for health care, my office will continue working to assist Rhode Islanders, save our health care system, and deliver for our state. And I will do everything I can to hold President Trump accountable."

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