Ex-Trump Official Blasts GOP’s Failure in Government Shutdown Fight

Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer has launched a scathing attack on Senate Republicans following a significant setback in their efforts to secure funding amid the ongoing government shutdown. Democrats blocked the Shutdown Fairness Act of 2025, which aimed to guarantee pay for military and federal workers, underscoring a critical failure in Republican messaging.

In a podcast episode released earlier today, Spicer expressed his disappointment, stating, “Senate Republicans should be embarrassed by how bad they’re messaging this.” He emphasized that they should have been visibly advocating for the bill alongside military members and Border Patrol agents. The legislation, introduced by Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), fell short of the required 60 votes to advance, with a final tally of 54-45.

The proposed measure would have ensured continued pay for essential federal employees, including active-duty troops, TSA agents, park rangers, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol officers. Spicer criticized Senate Republicans for their lackluster defense, labeling their response as “literally the lamest response” he had ever witnessed. “The idea that they voted and bolted is an embarrassment to the Republican Party,” he added.

In stark contrast, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) dismissed the legislation as a “ruse,” warning that it would grant undue authority to Trump budget director Russell Vought. “We will not give Donald Trump a license to play politics with people’s livelihoods,” Schumer stated, highlighting the stakes involved for many federal employees.

The government shutdown has left thousands of federal workers and military personnel in uncertainty as they await clarity on their paychecks. As negotiations continue, the Republicans’ inability to rally support for this crucial bill could have lasting consequences for their political standing.

With the shutdown ongoing, all eyes are now on how Republicans will regroup and respond to this critical failure. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action, and many are questioning the party’s strategy moving forward.

As this story develops, stay tuned for updates on the implications for federal workers and the ongoing negotiations in Washington D.C.