Sen. Katie Britt Comments on Government Shutdown

U.S. Senator Katie Britt recently addressed the ongoing government shutdown, criticizing Democrats for focusing on funding issues rather than protecting vulnerable Americans.

In an interview, Britt expressed that Republicans are ready to act immediately to reopen the government. She urged Democrats to come back to the discussion table.

“We’re prepared to open the government today. There’s plenty of work ahead for the American people, and the Republican Party is ready to get going,” Britt said.

“We’ve asked our Democratic colleagues to join us so we can keep doing the important work for Americans. I believe we can tackle multiple issues at once. We should be able to engage with the public about what truly matters while also addressing funding,” she added, hoping Democrats might reconsider their stance.

Britt characterized the shutdown as “totally premature,” stressing that it could adversely affect crucial programs for those in need.

“It’s far too early to shut down the government, especially with all that lies ahead for the American people,” she remarked. “We’re meant to be funding the government. If we’re discussing health care, why would we let WIC face cuts in certain areas? It’s aimed at women, infants, and children—some of the most vulnerable. It simply doesn’t make sense.”

Britt highlighted differences in funding priorities between Republican and Democratic leaders, calling attention to a pattern of inaction from the Democrats.

“Reflecting on the Democratic Party’s record under Chuck Schumer, there hasn’t been a single spending bill debated. He didn’t introduce any bills last year during his leadership, which led us to this continuing resolution earlier this year. In contrast, Leader John Thune managed to bring three appropriations bills to the floor before we took our break in August,” she noted. “We’re in a better position than we were at this point last Congress…People are exhausted by political showmanship, especially when it negatively impacts America’s most vulnerable. That’s the choice Democrats made recently.”

Additionally, Alabama senators announced their decision to forgo pay during the shutdown, showing solidarity with federal employees and military personnel.

“I stand with the brave men and women in uniform who won’t receive their paychecks starting next week,” Britt stated. “If we can’t mission here, there’s no logical reason for us to get paid while others do not. I believe my Democratic colleagues who supported this unnecessary path should also forgo their paychecks.”