Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) released the following statement in response to the federal government shutdown:

“This government shutdown is unnecessary and harmful –  not just in Washington, but to the pocketbooks of hardworking families.  From missed paychecks for federal employees to delays in benefits for our veterans and uncertainty for Main Street businesses, this shutdown will create real financial strain for Virginians. On September 19th, the House, in a bipartisan fashion and with my support, passed a government funding bill in order to keep the government open and ensure stability for seniors, veterans, military families, and more.  Since then, Senate Democrats have blocked movement of this bipartisan bill. In order to reopen the government, I would encourage my colleagues in the Senate to do what’s best for the country and vote on the House passed bill. As we wait for action by the Senate, I will continue to work on behalf of my constituents and my office will continue our operations.

“Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently called for Congress to return to regular order, passing each appropriations bill individually so that we can eliminate wasteful government spending, streamline programs, and address the national debt. In addition, I have supported numerous measures to hold Congress accountable and prevent government shutdowns in the future. 

“Unfortunately, Americans are now left to shoulder the cost of government inefficiency and party politics. The Continuing Resolution I voted for is the same short-term funding extension that virtually all Democrats voted to pass 13 times during the Biden Administration, yet this time, those same Members chose to vote against it to appease their far-left base. We have the Constitutional responsibility to keep the government operational for the American people. Government shutdowns are costly and disrupt the lives of many. I remain committed to delivering results, ensuring critical programs are available, and providing certainty for Virginians.” 

Congressman Wittman has consistently introduced numerous pieces of legislation to hold Members of Congress accountable for the budget process. 

• No Budget, No Pay Act: Withholds members’ pay until a budget is passed.
• Stay on Schedule Resolution: would require the House to stay in session through August instead of taking a month-long recess – if all government funding bills are not passed by the end of July.
• Inaction Has Consequences Act: would withhold Member pay if all 12 government funding bills are not done by the end of the fiscal year.

The Congressman is a cosponsor of the bipartisan Pay Our Troops Act to ensure members of the military are paid in the event of a government shutdown.