Representative Val Hoyle (D-OR) stated on Monday during an appearance on CNN’s “News Central” that Democratic lawmakers will not vote to fund the government if Republicans push President Donald Trump’s agenda, which she claims “undermines the American people.”
During the interview, host John Berman asked Hoyle about the potential for a government shutdown in March when key funding bills are set to be voted on. He questioned whether Democrats should block funding in response to Republican proposals.
Hoyle responded, “I think Hakeem Jeffries, I do trust him to be, you know, our — he is our leader and we will use whatever power we have. They will need Democratic votes to pass this budget. And fundamentally we’re not going to vote for something that undermines the American people.”
Hoyle further criticized elements of Trump’s influence on economic policies, pointing to billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk’s role in shaping political narratives. “Nobody voted for Elon Musk. He bought the election. But fundamentally he had put out on Twitter that, you know, people are going to have to suffer in order for us to make America great again meaning they have no intention of lowering prices, at least not in the short term.”
She accused Republicans of prioritizing “retribution” over economic relief, stating, “Nothing they have done has addressed prices for consumers or the economy. It’s all about retribution.”
With the March funding deadline approaching, a government shutdown remains a possibility as both parties hold firm on their priorities. Democrats, led by Jeffries and supported by lawmakers like Hoyle, emphasize that they will not vote for a budget that enacts Trump’s policy goals. Meanwhile, Republicans argue that their agenda aligns with voter priorities on immigration, economic stability, and national security.
If bipartisan negotiations fail, a budget standoff could result in another government shutdown, disrupting federal operations and affecting millions of Americans. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a compromise can be reached.
