Washington, DC—Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) released the following statement:

“Government shutdowns are not an effective way to govern. They’re extremely disruptive to government services and employees, compromise national security and threaten critical programs like the Violence Against Women Act. I have not, and simply will not, vote to continue the government shutdown. That’s why I voted in support of legislation before the House that would restore funding to the federal government.

To be clear, I voted for a one-month funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security to allow the House, Senate, and White House to work out a deal that secures our borders without threatening the existing border security apparatus like the U.S Coast Guard, TSA, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

I strongly believe that we must secure our border and fix our broken immigration system. That’s why I previously voted in support of $5 billion to secure our border. Last year, I voted for a compromise bill that would have secured our borders and protected DACA recipients. I am increasingly frustrated by the inaction on both sides to resolve this situation. Shutdowns are costly and unnecessary, and I will work with both sides to find a solution.”

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