House Speaker Mike Johnson issued strong criticism of Senate Democrats during a recent interview on Fox Business Network, arguing they are prolonging the federal government shutdown by rejecting the GOP’s funding proposal. Johnson noted that House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution (CR) weeks ago intended to keep the government operating through November 21, yet Senate Democrats have repeatedly blocked it. He accused them of preferring political posturing over practical action.
Johnson said the House‐passed bill secured support from 50 Senators, including two defectors—Catherine Cortez Masto (D–NV) and Angus King (I–ME)—while pointing out that John Fetterman (D–PA) did not vote. He claims the delay in reopening the government rests squarely with Democrats, whom he accuses of using the shutdown to appease their progressive base rather than negotiate budget deals. In his view, the impasse is driven by partisan tactics rather than governance.
Johnson described the Republican CR as a straightforward, 24‑page measure designed solely to keep the government open while longer‑term appropriations are worked out. He contrasted that with the alternative CR Democrats are pushing, which he says is packed with what he calls “wasteful spending” — citing examples such as funding for public broadcasting and health benefits for undocumented immigrants. He charged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries with caving to pressure from the progressive wing of their party and refusing to make a serious compromise.
Reflecting on negotiations, Johnson insisted Republicans have already offered a clear path forward and that little remains to be negotiated. He argued that past shutdowns were triggered by the inclusion of partisan “riders” in CRs — something he claims his side avoided this time around. He concluded by referencing Schumer’s previous support for a comparable CR, attributing the shift in his stance to political concerns in New York rather than substantive policy differences.
