A group of Republican veterans is criticizing Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for the ongoing government shutdown, claiming it threatens military readiness and veteran services. Led by August Pfluger, the chair of the Republican Study Committee, 27 members of the committee sent a letter urging Schumer and Senate Democrats to support a House-approved continuing resolution to fund the government.
The letter expresses frustration over Democrats’ refusal to back funding levels they previously agreed to. It argues that this shutdown is politically motivated and detrimental to the military and its members. The signers pointed out that President Trump recently instructed the Secretary of War and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to ensure troops would be paid despite the shutdown.
The letter highlights the impact of the shutdown, noting that nearly 335,000 civilian Department of Defense employees are currently furloughed. This situation disrupts logistics, maintenance, and base operations, leading to halted training and reduced military readiness. The letter warns that delays in Reserve and Guard drill weekends could directly affect unit cohesion and combat preparedness.
Pfluger, who is a reservist and veteran himself, shared his concerns in an interview, recalling how past shutdowns negatively affected military focus and readiness. He emphasized that military leaders should be concentrating on national defense, not worrying about their troops’ financial stability.
The letter calls for prioritizing national security and veterans’ needs over political agendas. It urges the passing of a clean continuing resolution to restore military readiness and veteran benefits.
Despite pressure from veterans and Republican lawmakers, the Senate recently rejected the continuing resolution once again, with Democrats blocking the measure. The government shutdown continues, and there seems to be no immediate solution in sight.
