Spanberger Statement on Vote to Keep Government Open, Avoid Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement after voting with a majority of the U.S. House to pass a short-term agreement that would keep the federal government open through December 3, 2021.

“On the floor of the House tonight, I was glad to see strong support behind keeping the doors of our government open and protecting the paychecks of our federal employees, U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel, federal law enforcement officers, and so many others. I am hopeful that the U.S. Senate will join us and move quickly to remove our nation from the precipice of a shutdown.

“Particularly as we rebuild from the damage caused by the pandemic, a government shutdown would be beyond reckless. While I continue to speak out against these Groundhog Day, short-term government funding processes, keeping our government open and preventing our nation from defaulting on its debts is the responsible course of action for Central Virginia and the country. Doing otherwise would be a dereliction of our basic duty as lawmakers.

“I am also encouraged that this legislation recognizes the financial and manpower resources needed to implement Operations Allies Welcome — and I am glad that this legislation would also deliver relief to Americans who are struggling to rebuild from recent natural disasters. As we look to make additional investments in our physical infrastructure and our economic recovery in the weeks ahead, I will keep advocating for responsible investments, a pathway towards greater financial responsibility, and the shared priorities of the American people.”

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