Blumenthal Blasts Shutdown, Calls It 'Step Backward For Democracy'

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement Monday after the Senate passed legislation to keep the government open. The bill awaited action from the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, but a government shutdown was expected.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal speaks the night of the impending shutdown to urge Speaker John Boehner to allow the House to vote on the Continuing Resolution that has bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress to stop the shutdown.

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by The Daily Voice

09/30/2013 11:00 p.m.

“Today, the Senate approved a simple, clean resolution that would continue essential government services and easily pass the House of Representatives if only Speaker Boehner permitted a vote. To him, I’d say, ‘Let the House vote.’ This resolution would avert unnecessary havoc and harm to our fragile economic recovery – particularly job growth – as well as to seniors, veterans, and children who depend on critical federally funded programs," Blumenthal said.

“My hope is that calmer minds and common sense will prevail, and the House be given an opportunity to reject hostage-taking tactics of the extreme right wing ideological fringe. Political gamesmanship and budget brinksmanship are endangering our economy and American people’s trust and confidence in our government. The Senate resolution is now the only path forward to keeping our government open.”

Blumenthal ‏was more blunt later in the evening, saying on Twitter via @SenBlumenthal: "Tonight was a step backward for democracy, our economy, and vital services to Americans. The shutdown is shameful. #LetHouseVote."

Watch Blumenthal's speech on the Senate floor above.

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