Representative Mike Haridopolos (R-FL) blasted Democrats and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) for their supposed willingness to shut down the government in a recent appearance on Fox Business's Mornings with Maria.
Several Republican lawmakers previously told host Maria Bartiromo that a continuing resolution (CR) is likely to be the vehicle through which the government remains open in September as Congress returns to session, and Democrats are unlikely to vote in favor, leading to a government shutdown.
Bartiromo asked Rep. Haridopolos if he was expecting a shutdown, which he did not, saying, "Let's hope not. As we have proved throughout the year, we have been responsible. We are making sure that we are reducing spending and reducing taxes so we can grow this economy."
"Clearly, Democrats believe in two things," Rep. Haridopolos continued, "Higher taxes, and they do not want to cut a darn thing out of the government. They think that big spending is okay."
Bartiromo noted that other Republicans have implied Sen. Schumer is actively seeking to shut down the government.
"I think he does," the Florida Congressman replied, "I think he wants to fight with the President. It seems like all they [Democrats] want to do is fight, whether it be a reapportionment or anything else, even stopping crime. They are now for crime. It is the most bizarre thing I have ever seen in my lifetime in politics."
Haridopolos appeared to be referencing Democratic opposition to President Donald Trump's federalization of the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police and deployment of the National Guard to combat high crime rates in the capital.
Nevertheless, he continued, "We are going to be focused on making sure that we are responsible with the money. We are going to keep the government open, and we are going to try to work out a deal. But as you know, it will take 60 votes in the United States Senate, and that means at least seven Democrat votes."
"We do our part in the House. Let's hope the Senate is responsible and moves a common-sense budget forward because we are poised for economic growth right now with the Big Beautiful Bill, with tax cuts in place," Haridopolos concluded.
