On Friday Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick voted in support of a continuing resolution to continue funding the federal government until December.
In a press release Fitzpatrick said “I voted for a Continuing Resolution which will give both Republicans and Democrats the time needed to write a workable plan to put our country back on the right track. Today’s vote keeps the government running and fulfills our financial obligations.”
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The short-term governmental spending plan voted on Friday went along party lines with a 230 -189 vote that also eliminated all funding for the Affordable Care Act.
It’s the 42 time the House has voted to repeal the health care plan passed in 2010.
Democratic candidates, Kevin Strouse and Shaughnessy Naughton, now engaged in a primary fight with the winner set to take on Fitzpatrick next year both weighed in about Fitzpatrick’s vote and public statements.
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“Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick displayed recklessness and partisanship today, effectively voting to shut down the government if Tea Party Republicans don’t get their way. Fitzpatrick has once again gone back on his word, just two days after saying a shutdown was “off the table.” He decided to align himself with the far-right Republicans in the House at the expense of middle class families in Pennsylvania’s 8th District. It’s typical of Congress, which has quit doing its job and actually working to represent its constituents,” Stouse said.
Naughton, in a Saturday morning conversation said, “if we were to run the business of government like the like tea party and Fitzpatrick we’d be out of business. As a small business owner this is what’s holding the economy back. Compromise not threatening small businesses should be the end goal here”
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Fitzpatrick also sent off a letter to President Obama asking to delay implementation of ACA for one year as the administration has done for other businesses also including if the president were to carry out such a delay it would help in resolving with roadblocks to funding the government and “make good” on obligations via the debt ceiling.
CNN reported Friday polls showing a decrease in public support for the health care reform, yet surveys show most people oppose a government shutdown and more would blame Republicans if it happens.
The Democratic lead Senate plans to strip out any effort to defund the ACA, say published reports, and send the measure back to the House.
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For now, the government is funded for the first part of the fiscal year that begins on October 1. Without a spending measure put in place by then a government shutdown could likely begin
To read Congressman Fitzpatrick’s letter to President Obama click here
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