It appears as though Democrats truly have not learned from the government shutdown which has now entered its 14th day. The Washington Post reports that House Democrats recently passed legislation to reopen the government; however, this legislation does not include funding for the president’s border wall.
This is actually shocking because the president has said multiple times that he will stand for nothing less than the proper funding for the wall. Moreover, Trump clearly articulated that he will veto any bill which fails to provide the aforementioned funding. At this point, either Democrats are not listening, do not care, or simply believe that ignoring Trump and refusing to work with him will allow them to ultimately win.
A Closer Look at House Democrats’ Bill to Reopen Government
House Democrats put together a six-package bill which garnered 241 votes last night; the spending bill for Homeland Security successfully attained 239 votes. A minority of the support came from some House Republicans who are eager for the government to be reopened.
At this time, House Democrats are now expecting the Senate to vote accordingly and pass their bills. On Thursday, newly appointed House Speaker Pelosi called upon Republicans to support the bills which passed in the House:
“What we’re asking the Republicans in the Senate to do is to take ‘yes’ for an answer. We are sending them back exactly, word for word, what they have passed. Why would they not do that? Is it because the president won’t sign it? Did they not hear about the coequal branch of government, and that we the Congress send the president legislation and he can choose to sign or not?”
However, like the president, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has already explained that Republicans will not pass legislation which fails to fund the border wall:
“I’ve made it clear on several occasions, and let me say it again: The Senate will not take up any proposal that does not have a real chance of passing this chamber and getting a presidential signature. Let’s not waste the time. Let’s not get off on the wrong foot, with House Democrats using their new platform to produce political statements rather than serious solutions.”
Congressional Legislation
At this point, President Trump and Republicans have made their points clear on multiple occasions: the border wall is paramount. Pelosi continues to ask why the president and GOP are not passing House Democrat bills, but she already knows why. She knows it’s because Democrats are refusing to fund the wall.
As long as Democrats continue their attempts to stonewall the implementation for border security, their legislation will continue to fail.
What are your thoughts about House Democrats’ failure to produce bills which fund the government? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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