Rep. Carter Statement on the Republican House’s Failure to Uphold Constitutional Responsibilities

NEW ORLEANS, LA - Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

"As both a Member of Congress and an adjunct professor of political science, I view the current state of House leadership with deep concern - not simply as political dysfunction, but as a direct threat to the constitutional order of our nation.

"The framers of our Constitution designed a system rooted in checks and balances, ensuring no single branch could dominate the others. The House of Representatives - the people's branch - was never intended to be paralyzed by partisanship or personal ambition. Yet that is exactly where we find ourselves today.

"When Congress fails to act, power doesn't vanish - it shifts. And when that power shifts to the Executive Branch without meaningful oversight, we weaken the very structure of our democracy. A non-functioning House hands the President unchecked authority, creating the kind of imbalance the framers explicitly sought to prevent.

"This is not an abstract concern. We have now been out of session for more than 30 days. A duly elected Member of Congress remains unsworn, blocked from taking their oath and representing their constituents. That denial of representation is unacceptable and undermines the very foundation of democratic governance.

"But the consequences go far beyond constitutional principle. Real families are being hurt. Medicaid beneficiaries face growing uncertainty. Millions of Americans who rely on ACA tax credits are left in limbo. SNAP recipients are at risk of losing access to basic nutrition support if the shutdown persists. These are not political talking points - these are real lives, real families, and real communities on the line.

"This is not about party politics. It is about duty - and the oath every Member of Congress swears to defend the Constitution. When the House majority fails to uphold its basic responsibilities, it is more than a failure of leadership; it is a betrayal of that solemn oath.

"I urge my colleagues to put country before party, governance before gridlock, and democracy before dysfunction. History will judge this moment - and so will the American people."

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