Congressman Lawler strongly criticizes senator schumer for rejecting funding bill and pushing the country toward a government shutdown

Pearl River, New York – Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) did not hold back in his criticism of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer today, accusing him of playing political games that could push the country into a government shutdown. Lawler, a strong supporter of bipartisan efforts to fund the government, expressed frustration over Schumer’s rejection of a House-approved continuing resolution that would have kept federal operations running.

“Chuck Schumer is playing politics with Americans’ lives by rejecting a continuing resolution that keeps the government open. His hypocrisy could not be clearer. After lambasting shutdowns in 2024, Chuck Schumer is now risking VA closures, frozen nutrition programs, and delayed military benefits,” said Congressman Lawler. He referenced a social media post by Schumer highlighting the very same programs that would be affected by a shutdown.

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The House-passed resolution, which received overwhelming Republican support and even a vote from one Democrat, Rep. Jared Golden (ME-02), was intended to prevent disruptions in government services. Golden, in breaking ranks with his party, criticized Democratic leadership for prioritizing “messaging gimmicks” over meaningful governance. He stated that the measure did not cut veterans’ care and accused some of his Democratic colleagues of misleading the public to justify their opposition.

Lawler pointed to this internal division within the Democratic Party as evidence of political maneuvering that ultimately places unnecessary burdens on American families. He stressed that while Democrats have vocally opposed government shutdowns in the past, their current stance threatens financial markets, economic stability, and critical services for constituents in New York’s Hudson Valley and beyond.

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“New Yorkers deserve stability, not partisan chaos,” Lawler concluded, emphasizing the need for responsible leadership in Washington.

As one of the most bipartisan members of Congress, Lawler has consistently supported government funding measures, regardless of the administration in power. His district, encompassing Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester counties, is home to thousands of working families, veterans, and federal employees who could face direct consequences if government funding lapses.

With the deadline looming and tensions rising on Capitol Hill, all eyes remain on congressional leaders to find a resolution before a shutdown becomes reality. Meanwhile, Lawler continues to push for a pragmatic approach, urging both parties to set aside political posturing and prioritize the needs of the American people.