WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced “substantial” layoffs of federal workers amid the government shutdown:

“Donald Trump and Russ Vought are once again showing us exactly who they are: reckless ideologues willing to inflict real pain on hardworking Americans to score political points. They have repeatedly treated federal employees not as partners in serving the American people, but as punching bags for their political agenda. Now, in the middle of a shutdown manufactured by Republicans – who control the House, the Senate, and the White House – they’re doubling down by laying off federal workers, turning their own failure to govern into a direct attack on the people who keep this country running and jeopardizing vital government services.

“Let’s be very clear: this is not an unfortunate byproduct of the government shutdown, but a deliberate choice. Republicans are intentionally holding federal workers hostage to force through their agenda driving up health care costs for millions. Instead of keeping health premiums affordable, the Trump administration is using America’s public servants as pawns to advance policies that harm working families. It’s irresponsible, it’s cruel, and it won’t work. It’s time for Republicans in Congress to end this shutdown and work with us to keep health care affordable for all Americans.”

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