FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chairman
Thompson Statement on the Trump Shutdown’s Homeland Security Impact
Today marks the
second missed paycheck for 800,000 Feds
January 25,
2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Chairman of
the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement on the
Trump Shutdown and its continued negative impact on our frontline
homeland security personnel who are charged with keeping the nation
safe and secure. Yesterday, Chairman Thompson hosted a Congressional Panel discussion featuring former Homeland Security
Secretary Jeh Johnson on the effects of the Trump Shutdown on the
Department of Homeland Security. Today marks the second paycheck
missed for the DHS workforce, including approximately 800,000 federal
employees.
“Now into its
second month, the effects of the Trump Shutdown are becoming more worrisome
for the safety of the nation by the day. It has become clear from
hearing from those on the frontlines that even if the shutdown ended
today, we will be dealing with the consequences of it for months – or
even years – to come. Quite simply, the shutdown is undermining the
Department of Homeland Security’s ability to secure the homeland and
protect the American people.”
“I have no
doubts about the dedication of the public servants that protect our
skies, waterways, and borders. However, I continue to be worried
that not having a paycheck – and not knowing when the next one will
come – will serve as an altogether avoidable distraction to those whose
jobs require laser focus on keeping our homeland secure.”
“Our homeland
security personnel have been showing remarkable strength during this
uncertain time, but I am afraid even the slightest additional stressor
could call the resilience of our system into doubt. Donald Trump’s
running a government like this defies logic and common sense.”
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Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978 |
