Senator Chris Murphy, a Democratic lawmaker from Connecticut, is gaining attention for his impassioned statements against President Trump's decision to close government agencies and withhold federal funding. Along with other Democrats, Murphy believes the country is facing a severe constitutional crisis and that the president is attempting to gain power for corrupt purposes.
Government Shutdown: Senator Chris Murphy's Impassioned Statements
Background
The current partial government shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, stems from a dispute between the White House and Congress over funding for a border wall between the United States and Mexico. President Trump has demanded that Congress allocate $5.7 billion for the wall, while Democrats have refused, arguing that it is an ineffective and expensive way to address illegal immigration.
Senator Chris Murphy's Position
Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) has been a vocal critic of President Trump's decision to close government agencies and withhold federal funding. He has argued that the shutdown is a "manufactured crisis" caused by Trump's "inability to get his way."
Murphy has also accused Trump of attempting to gain power for corrupt purposes. In a speech on the Senate floor, Murphy said, "This is a president who believes he is above the law, who believes he can use the power of his office for corrupt purposes, who believes he can extort the American people for personal and political gain."
Five Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the impact of the government shutdown?
The government shutdown has affected over 800,000 federal employees, who are either furloughed (without pay) or working without pay. It has also disrupted essential government services, including the issuance of passports, the processing of visas, and the inspections of food and drugs.
2. Why are Democrats opposed to funding the border wall?
Democrats believe that the border wall is an ineffective and expensive way to address illegal immigration. They argue that the vast majority of undocumented immigrants enter the country legally and overstay their visas.
3. What are the potential consequences of a prolonged shutdown?
A prolonged shutdown could have serious consequences for the US economy. It could lead to a decline in economic growth, an increase in unemployment, and a loss of confidence in the government.
4. Has there ever been a longer government shutdown?
Yes. The longest government shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, from December 15, 2018, to January 19, 2019.
5. What can be done to end the shutdown?
The government shutdown can be ended if the White House and Congress reach an agreement on funding for the border wall. One possible compromise could be to allocate a smaller amount of money for the wall than Trump has demanded.
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