Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL) issued the following statement after voting for a bipartisan spending measure that averted a government shutdown and provided critical funds to secure our nation’s border and ports of entry. The measure passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 300 to 128.

“After a 35-day government shutdown and months of instability, I supported a bipartisan compromise that represents the best possible path forward to secure our borders and responsibly fund our government. Our military men and women, federal workers, and families who rely on social service programs deserve better than another senseless shutdown,” said Congresswoman Blunt Rochester. “While imperfect, this compromise includes funding for key priorities like rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, combating the opioid crisis, and providing federal workers a much-needed pay raise.”

“While I am pleased we were able to avert a government shutdown, we are entering a potential constitutional crisis because of the President’s threat of a national emergency declaration – undermining Congress and the will of the American people. A national emergency should only be reserved for situations that put the health and safety of the American people at risk, and this situation definitely doesn’t meet that requirement. The President needs to recognize Congress’ role as a co-equal branch of government, instead of unilaterally creating an artificial emergency to appease some in his base. It is my sincere hope that the House and Senate will immediately step in and take action to end the President’s improper use of a national emergency declaration.”

###