Special Poll
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) issued a strong statement on Friday urging Senate Democrats to reject a short-term government funding measure, subtly criticizing Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) without mentioning him by name. Pelosi’s comments highlight growing tensions among top Democratic leaders as they debate how to handle the looming government shutdown.
Pelosi called on Democratic senators to heed the advice of key female lawmakers, stating, “Democratic senators should listen to the women.” She pointed to Appropriations Committee leaders Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), who have argued for a better alternative—one that includes a four-week funding extension to keep the government open while negotiating a bipartisan agreement.
Drawing a contrast to past shutdowns, Pelosi warned against what she sees as a dangerous approach. “America has experienced a Trump shutdown before – but this damaging legislation only makes matters worse. Democrats must not buy into this false choice. We must fight back for a better way. Listen to the women, For The People,” she said.
Her statement comes a day after Schumer announced his intention to vote in favor of advancing the House Republican stopgap funding bill, which would keep the government running through September 30 and prevent a shutdown that would otherwise begin at midnight on March 15. Senate Republicans need at least eight Democrats to support the measure to move it forward.
Schumer acknowledged that the proposed funding bill is “very bad,” but argued that a government shutdown would have even worse consequences. He warned that a prolonged shutdown could allow former President Trump to consolidate more power, making the situation even more perilous for the country.
Despite Schumer’s stance, a growing number of Senate Democrats, including those in competitive districts, have voiced strong opposition to the funding bill. Earlier this week, Democratic House leaders urged their members to vote against the measure, with only one Democrat, Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine), breaking ranks to support it.
As Pelosi and Schumer remain at odds, the Democratic Party faces internal divisions over how best to handle the funding crisis while preventing a government shutdown. With time running out, the debate underscores the broader struggle between progressive and centrist factions within the party.