OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. (KOKH) -- Multiple state leaders are criticizing the federal government shutdown as Oklahomans question what happens next.
U.S. Senator James Lankford was on Good Day Oklahoma, where he said in part, "The faster we can get things resolved, the better. We had several Democrats who joined us last night, who said, 'Hey, let's just keep the government open while we're negotiating.' We're hoping to have a few more. If we don't get that in the next couple of days, this could be several weeks."
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin said he voted on the proposal to keep the government open while negotiations continue.
This Schumer Shutdown was completely avoidable. Instead of doing the right thing and supporting a bipartisan effort to keep the government open, Chuck Schumer put his lifelong political career ahead of the tens of thousands of federal employees in Oklahoma. Terrified of a primary challenge from radical leftist AOC -- Schumer rejected the same deal he supported just months ago, all to give healthcare to illegal alien criminals. President Trump has a mandate to govern, and it's shameful to see Democrats throwing a temper tantrum and holding the American people hostage because they resent Americans for electing President Trump in the first place.
"A shutdown halts normal government operations and limits federal agency activity to only essential services. Oklahomans should know that my offices will remain open and fully operational through the Schumer Shutdown. We are here to help. While many federal agencies release guidance for shutdowns, my team is available to answer any questions.
In his release, Mullin included an FAQ on government shutdowns:
Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson also released a statement saying Oklahomans are paying the cost of Congress refusing to work.
Many agencies are preparing for mass firings, employees must continue their work without pay, and many are being furloughed. We must remember that these disagreements directly affect people-our family members and neighbors. This shutdown will not only cost taxpayers but cost the livelihoods of thousands of federal employees as well as those who rely on federal services. The truth is this: Republicans control the White House, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House-it is their job to govern, which includes reaching across the aisle to create a budget that works for everyone. In a time of immense dysfunction in Washington, I am disappointed in our federal delegation for not finding a way to collaborate with their colleagues across the aisle to ensure Oklahomans do not lose their jobs or services. While this shutdown gets addressed in an indefinite amount of time, I encourage Oklahomans to continue to be there for one another and take the proper steps they need to prevent their lives from being further derailed by an administration that does not appear to put people's lives above political disagreements.