Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)
WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined the California Republican Congressional Delegation in issuing the following statement on the dangers of the ongoing partial shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
“Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan funding package for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Regrettably, this critical funding has not passed the Senate, putting our safety and security at risk. As members of the California congressional delegation, we are committed to protecting the homeland and the American people. Public safety should never be used as a bargaining chip.
“Today, we face a heightened threat landscape as our great nation counters the imminent danger posed by the Iranian regime. Now more than ever, it is critical to ensure our nation’s largest law enforcement agency is fully operational and has the resources needed to neutralize any potential threats. The security of our homeland is not a partisan game. Our cybersecurity operations are weakened, critical intelligence sharing is disrupted, and over 250,000 public servants supporting our national security are being forced to go without pay – including our TSA agents who work every day to prevent terror attacks.
“In our own backyard, California is preparing to host part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, followed by the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. The safety and success of these global events hinge on DHS’ ability to maintain mission readiness. The longer this partial shutdown continues, the weaker our ability to prepare for these events becomes. To delay any longer is to risk the lives of countless Californians and millions of international visitors alike.
“Tomorrow, the House is expected to vote once again on DHS funding. Both sides of the aisle must come together in the spirit of responsible governance. In the strongest possible terms, we urge our Democrat colleagues to join us in voting to reopen DHS so it has the resources necessary to fulfill its mission and safeguard American communities.”
Congressman David Valadao, CA-22
Congressman Vince Fong, CA-20
Congressman Ken Calvert, CA-41
Congressman Darrell Issa, CA-48
Congressman Kevin Kiley, CA-03
Congresswoman Young Kim, CA-40
Congressman Tom McClintock, CA-05
Congressman Jay Obernolte, CA-23
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