Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today released the following statement after House Republicans forced the federal government to shut down at midnight.
“Virginia is home to tens of thousands of federal workers, contractors, and service members who keep our country running. Tonight, they are once again being forced to wonder when they will get their next paycheck — not because they failed to do their jobs, but because lawmakers in Congress failed to do theirs.
“As their Representative, a 25-year Army officer, and as the husband of a former federal employee, I know the uncertainty and strain shutdowns place on families. My family has lived through it. That is why I directed the U.S. House to withhold my salary until the government is back open — because working families know the truth: if you don’t do your job, you don’t get paid. Members of Congress should play by the same rules.
“In March, I introduced bipartisan legislation to block lawmakers from receiving pay during shutdowns. I will continue pressing to make sure Congress is held to the same standard as those we serve.
“I do not want a shutdown. I strongly support a responsible, bipartisan budget — one that protects Virginians’ health care, invests in our public schools, and lowers costs for hardworking families. What I cannot do in good faith is support a partisan plan that sells out my constituents and further punishes public servants.
“Trump and his rubber-stamp Republicans have chosen to hurt Virginia families instead of working across the aisle. It’s past time they come to the table so we can find real solutions, reopen the government, and deliver for the people we serve.”
Constituents can find resources for federal employees, contractors, and service members affected by the shutdown on vindman.house.gov under the ‘Services’ tab.
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