Sen. Bernie Sanders grew frustrated with a Republican attendee during a CNN town hall event on Wednesday, as the question focused on whether the government shutdown reflected Sen. Chuck Schumer’s leadership. The attendee, Rohan Naval, a student at American University, asked Sanders how he believes the shutdown reflects Schumer’s leadership.
Sanders, known for his progressive stance, took the opportunity to redirect the question, suggesting that the shutdown was more about the leadership of other figures, including President Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mike Johnson. Sanders pointed out that the shutdown was a result of a failure to find common ground, emphasizing the need for bipartisan talks.
Naval responded by questioning Sanders’ position, noting that Schumer had voted for continuing resolutions multiple times and was refusing to negotiate. Sanders then highlighted the requirement for 60 Senate votes to move forward, pointing out the lack of engagement from both sides of the aisle.
Republicans have accused Schumer of being responsible for the shutdown, stating that he has not been willing to compromise. Schumer, however, has maintained that the shutdown is a tactic to pressure the Democratic Party to accept their healthcare proposals. The White House has criticized Schumer’s comments, suggesting that he is undermining the American public by prolonging the shutdown.
The exchange at the town hall reflects the growing tensions in Congress over the shutdown, as both parties struggle to find a resolution. Sanders’ comments indicate a continued emphasis on holding leaders accountable for the ongoing crisis, with the focus remaining on the lack of leadership and dialogue from key figures in both parties.