URGENT UPDATE: Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer has sharply criticized Senate Republicans following a failed vote on a critical bill aimed at ensuring pay for military and federal workers during the ongoing government shutdown. The bill, known as the Shutdown Fairness Act of 2025, introduced by Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), fell short with a final tally of 54-45, missing the 60 votes needed to advance.
In a passionate segment on his podcast, Spicer lambasted Senate Republicans for their lack of effective communication and action. “Senate Republicans should be embarrassed by how bad they’re messaging this,” he stated. Spicer emphasized that GOP senators should have publicly rallied with military members and Border Patrol agents to advocate for the bill, which would have guaranteed continued pay for essential employees, including active-duty troops, TSA agents, park rangers, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol officers.
Spicer went on to describe the Republican response as “literally the lamest response” he had ever seen, adding, “The idea that they voted and bolted is an embarrassment to the Republican Party.” His remarks reflect a growing frustration among party members about the handling of the shutdown, which has left numerous federal employees and military personnel in uncertainty over their paychecks.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) dismissed the GOP’s proposal as a “ruse,” claiming it would grant Donald Trump’s budget director, Russell Vought, undue authority. “We will not give Donald Trump a license to play politics with people’s livelihoods,” Schumer asserted, further complicating the Republican effort to secure funding.
This latest development highlights the ongoing political struggle as the government shutdown continues to affect thousands of workers nationwide. With both parties at an impasse, the implications for federal employees and active-duty military personnel grow more severe, raising urgent concerns about financial stability for those affected.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the Senate as they navigate the complexities of the shutdown and seek a resolution. Key actions and decisions in the coming days will be critical for the livelihoods of countless Americans.
