WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) tonight released a statement following Senate Republicans’ failure to negotiate with Democrats to fund the government:   

“Nobody wants a shutdown—it is damaging to our economy, to federal workers, and to the foundation of our democracy. A shutdown, ultimately, is a failure of the Legislative and Executive branch to work together and do the most basic function of our job. Past shutdowns have been avoided and solved by a negotiation between Republicans and Democrats, but this time is different. President Trump has made it clear he has no interest in working with us, telling Congressional Republicans, ‘Don’t even bother dealing with them.’  

“Our health care system is broken and too expensive. Democrats are fighting to protect the health care of American families who rely on the Affordable Care Act for their coverage. If we don’t act and extend these tax credits, premiums will more than double, and millions of people will lose access to care. We must work together to stop patients from falling off this health care cliff before Open Enrollment begins. If not, this will be disastrous, whether folks are represented by a Republican or a Democrat. My goal is to protect access to health care which is more important than ever. There is a very straightforward way to resolve this; even after the midnight hour, I believe we can find agreement and reopen the government.” 

Senator Welch’s office will remain open throughout the shutdown to help Vermonters. Resources can be found on the Senator’s website or by calling 802-863-2525.  

###