Sen. John Kennedy Accuses Democrats of Excessive Demands in Shutdown Talks

Washington, D.C. — Senator John Kennedy, R-La., criticized Senate Democrats on Friday for allegedly demanding millions in foreign aid and unrelated funding as part of negotiations to reopen the government. The shutdown is now in its seventh day, with no clear resolution in sight.

Kennedy claimed that the proposed aid includes funding for LGBT projects, cooking classes, and electric buses, calling it indicative of a broader socialist agenda led by Democrats. Kennedy particularly singled out Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., asserting that she influences the party’s direction.

“I don’t think Senator Schumer was the person in charge, because Senator Schumer is not the leader of the Socialist wing of his party, Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez is. She’s running the show,” Kennedy stated on the Senate floor.

In response to Kennedy’s comments, Ocasio-Cortez rejected the notion that she was steering negotiations. “These claims are ridiculous. Republicans are the ones responsible for this shutdown,” she said, emphasizing that Democrats have remained united behind their demands.

Kennedy also listed details of the funding he alleged Democrats were seeking, including $4.2 million for LGBTQ support in the Western Balkans, $3.6 million for pastry classes in Haiti, and $6 million for Palestinian media organizations.

Despite Kennedy’s assertions, the Democratic counter-proposal largely focused on extending Obamacare tax credits and addressing security funding for lawmakers. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed frustration with Republican negotiations, stating, “My caucus and Democrats are adamant we must protect the healthcare of the American people.”

As the government shutdown continues, there are concerns about the effects on furloughed federal workers, with a White House memo indicating that up to 750,000 employees may not receive pay during the standoff.

“Federal workers are not being paid while House Republicans are getting paid and not working. That’s a very bad picture,” Schumer remarked, further criticizing the reluctance of Republican leaders to meet with Democrats to reach an agreement.

Lawmakers are still entrenched in their positions, with no resolution in sight. Kennedy’s accusations and Ocasio-Cortez’s rebuttal come amid ongoing discussions about funding and reopening the government.