Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., appeared on Fox News’ “America’s Newsroom” on Friday to provide an update on the government shutdown, stating that the upper chamber is preparing a test vote on a new funding plan.
Thune issued a stark warning to Democrats, accusing them of obstruction and asserting that their current stance will ultimately “cost them in the long term.”
Accusations of Obstruction and ‘Bullying’
Senator Thune claimed that Republicans have offered a comprehensive proposal that includes provisions Democrats have asked for, but they have been unwilling to accept it. He expressed exasperation, stating that Democrats “just have to take yes for an answer.”
The GOP offer, according to Thune, includes a normal appropriations process, a vote on the Democrats’ desired Obamacare fix, and a willingness from President Trump to meet on a path forward after the government is reopened.
The Senator suggested the primary hurdle is internal Democratic politics, alleging that the “far-left, which is the tail wagging the dog, is bullying the reasonable Democrats out of coming to the table.” He also criticized reports that some Democrats are “celebrating” the shutdown, calling the situation “insane.”
Growing Pain for Americans
Thune highlighted the multiplying negative effects of the shutdown on the American public, referencing earlier comments made by Transportation Secretary Shawn Duffy.
“The pain is multiplying for the American people,” Thune stated, noting that the shutdown has left “men and women in uniform are going without pay” and threatens benefits for women and children who rely on WIC and food stamps. He also pointed to flight delays and issues at airports.
Political Fallout
Despite Democrats feeling “emboldened,” Thune warned that the political environment will eventually turn against them.
While acknowledging that some believe Democrats are winning in the short term, Thune called the current position “unsustainable” for the Democratic Party, predicting that the American people will have the opportunity to weigh in during the next election cycle.
He concluded by asserting that the Democrats are “owning it” and “taking credit for it,” a stance that will ultimately lead to political defeat for their party.
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