Vice President JD Vance Slams Democrats Over Government Shutdown: “You Don’t Close the Country Over a Policy Disagreement”

Throughout his remarks, Vance emphasized what he called “commonsense leadership” — the idea that disagreements over policy should be settled through debate and compromise, not by shutting down government operations.

“Every shutdown costs taxpayers billions, delays critical programs, and weakens our credibility at home and abroad,” he said. “We can disagree without bringing the country to a standstill.”

He urged both parties to focus on what Americans actually need: lower costs, a stable economy, and confidence that their leaders can work together without resorting to political theater.

What Comes Next

As the standoff continues, federal employees face furloughs, and many public services are expected to slow or halt entirely. Lawmakers are scrambling to find a short-term solution, but both sides remain entrenched.

Democratic leaders argue that the administration’s refusal to include certain funding measures for healthcare, education, and social programs is what caused the impasse. The White House maintains that the Democrats’ spending proposal goes far beyond what the economy can sustain.

For now, Vance says, Americans should remember who started it.

“This isn’t about party loyalty,” he said. “It’s about responsibility. You don’t hold the country hostage to score political points.”