Verbal Clash in New York Over Government Shutdown
On a Wednesday afternoon, tensions flared in New York as two politicians engaged in a heated exchange regarding the ongoing government shutdown. Republican Representative Mike Lawler confronted Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries just outside a press conference, emphasizing the refusal of Democrats to reopen government offices.
Lawler accused Jeffries of voting to shut down the government, while Jeffries had previously claimed that Republicans were avoiding discussions about the shutdown. However, when Lawler expressed his willingness to debate the issue, Jeffries responded by telling him to “keep his mouth shut.”
“You didn’t want all the Republicans here?” Lawler questioned Jeffries. “I’m here.” He further stated, “I voted for a clean CR to keep government open and funded. You voted to shut it down.”
Jeffries, seemingly unfazed, criticized Lawler, claiming he was trying to create a viral moment for himself. He also attacked Lawler for supporting what he termed President Donald Trump’s major legislative achievement, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, while accusing him of desperation regarding his re-election.
At one point, Jeffries retorted, “Are you trying to exalt yourself because you’re scared of getting re-elected? You’re chasing influence.” He continued, insisting that Lawler was not really interested in dialogue, asking, “Then why don’t you keep your mouth shut?”
It’s worth noting that nearly all House Democrats had previously voted against a bipartisan spending bill intended to prevent a government shutdown last month. Jeffries has been pushing for negotiations to attach unrelated policy demands to the funding package, but Chairman Mike Johnson has firmly stated that talks won’t take place until the government is reopened.
Meanwhile, across the street at the Capitol, Senate Democrats blocked a House-passed funding bill for the sixth time.
Lawler didn’t hold back in his criticisms, questioning Jeffries about his apparent avoidance of the New York mayoral primary. With the election looming, Lawler pressed Jeffries on whether he supports Zoran Mamdani, the socialist Democratic Party candidate.
“When will you support him?” Lawler demanded. “Do you support him as a mayoral candidate?”
In response, Jeffries dismissively stated, “First of all, I won’t answer you. You’re not even answering yourself. I’ll answer all the questions that need to be answered about the mayoral race.” He did not address Lawler’s inquiries or concerns regarding Mamdani’s controversial statements related to a recent terrorist attack.
Lawler lamented the situation, stating, “That’s sad.” Despite some support from Democratic Party leaders in New York, both Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have yet to endorse Mamdani, who is favored to win the upcoming election.
