Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), who represents the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, has issued a statement following the Senate’s passage of legislation to reopen the federal government. Mackenzie highlighted that he previously joined a bipartisan majority in the House in September to pass a clean continuing resolution, which was subsequently blocked multiple times by Senate Democrats.
“At a time of division, it’s essential that both parties embrace bipartisan compromise whenever possible,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “This is what occurred when the government was funded in March, and this is what should have happened in this case. That’s why I continue to support a bipartisan government funding bill like the one we passed in the House over a month ago. Until today, this kind of commonsense bipartisanship has been prevented by some Senate Democrats who have chosen to prioritize politics and obstruction. These political games have had devastating results for government employees and essential programs, and I’m thankful that funding may soon be restored. I call on all members of the U.S. House, including the Democrats who have supported the shutdown, to help pass a bipartisan government funding bill.”
The recently approved Senate agreement will keep federal operations running through January 30th. The package also requires an upcoming vote on whether to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits set to expire soon. Congressman Mackenzie has urged action on these expiring health insurance credits.
“It has been almost two months since I joined my colleagues in the House to pass a clean, bipartisan government funding bill,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “I look forward to once again passing a funding bill so that we can reopen the government, pay federal workers, and address the expiration of health insurance tax credits.”
