ICYMI: House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain delivered remarks at the GOP Leadership Press Conference

WASHINGTON-House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain delivered remarks at the GOP Leadership Press Conference:

Yesterday, Americans woke up to an unthinkable reality.

A communist was elected mayor of America's largest city.

How did this happen? Because a small, socialist portion of this country took control of the Democratic Party - a party that is now apparently united behind socialist slogans.

Slogans that always seem to start with the same word: "free."

Free food. Free rent. Free bus rides.

Well, like many of you, my parents taught me while I was young: Nothing is free. I repeat. Nothing is free.

Look no further than the Democrats' disastrous shutdown plan. They want to give "free" healthcare to illegals. And in demanding that, they are asking for $1.5 trillion in wasteful spending and a painful shutdown.

A shutdown that has denied food assistance to American families. Forced law enforcement to work without pay.

Jeopardized our nation's safety. And now, reduced 10% of flights in 40 of our major airports. Look-nothing is free.

Your Republican leaders know that. That's why we voted more than a month ago to fund the government. That's why we've been working in our districts to help those suffering.

It's why we're fighting to deliver real results that drive down gas prices and mortgages and the price of eggs.

Not for illegals. Not for radicals.

Not for communists who despise this country. But for the men and women who love America - and keep it strong every single day.

So to the Democrats - let me make this clear. Republicans will still be here when your communist kingmakers finally give you permission to put Americans first again.

We'll still be here when your socialist experiment collapses- because it always does.

And we'll be standing shoulder to shoulder with the hardworking Americans who aren't demanding free groceries, buses or rent - no, we'll be standing with those demanding nothing less than freedom.

Because that's what makes this country great. Not socialism. Not government control.

Freedom.