Ex-Trump Official Slams GOP Over Failed Shutdown Bill

URGENT UPDATE: Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer has sharply criticized Senate Republicans for their handling of a critical bill aimed at ensuring pay for military and federal workers amid the ongoing government shutdown. Just moments ago, Spicer expressed his frustration on his podcast, stating, “Senate Republicans should be embarrassed by how bad they’re messaging this.”

The bill, known as the Shutdown Fairness Act of 2025, was introduced by Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) but failed to secure the necessary votes, collapsing with a final tally of 54-45. The legislation sought to guarantee continued pay for “excepted” federal employees, including active-duty military, TSA agents, park rangers, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol officers. This development comes at a time when federal workers are facing financial uncertainty due to the shutdown.

Spicer did not hold back in his criticism of the Republicans’ response to the situation, labeling their actions as “literally the lamest response” he had ever witnessed. He argued that they should have taken a more visible stance, saying, “They should have been out on the steps last night with military members and Border Patrol.” His comments highlight a growing concern within the party about messaging and strategy during this pivotal moment.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) dismissed the Shutdown Fairness Act as a “ruse,” claiming it would grant undue authority to Donald Trump‘s budget director, Russell Vought. Schumer stated, “We will not give Donald Trump a license to play politics with people’s livelihoods,” further intensifying the partisan divide over the shutdown.

This intense standoff raises significant questions about the future of government funding and the potential impact on federal employees and military personnel. As the shutdown continues, the urgency for a resolution is palpable, with millions of Americans anxiously awaiting a breakthrough.

As developments unfold, observers are left wondering what steps will be taken next by both parties to resolve this critical issue. With federal workers and military families directly affected, the stakes have never been higher.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.