Sioux City Times

Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican representing Iowa, posted a series of statements on October 8, 2025, criticizing the ongoing government shutdown and its effects on federal workers and military personnel.

In a post made at 15:12 UTC, Ernst stated, "For the sixth straight “work” day, taxpayers are footing the $400 million bill to pay 750,000 'non-essential' bureaucrats to NOT WORK because of the Schumer Shutdown. Democrats could vote to reopen the government today!"

Later that afternoon, at 16:06 UTC, she wrote, "Schumer's Selfish Shutdown is putting our brave men and women in uniform at risk of missing their next paychecks. Democrats could vote TODAY to reopen the government, so our servicemembers don't have to pay the price for pointless political games."

Ernst also commented on border security in a brief message posted at 17:07 UTC: "Most secure border in history."

The senator's remarks come as Congress faces an impasse over funding legislation, resulting in a partial government shutdown. The term "Schumer Shutdown" refers to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and is used by some Republicans to assign blame for the lapse in funding. During such shutdowns, hundreds of thousands of federal employees deemed "non-essential" are furloughed or work without pay until funding is restored. The situation can also affect military personnel, who may face delayed paychecks if appropriations are not approved.

Shutdowns have historically occurred when Congress fails to pass budget legislation or continuing resolutions needed to fund government operations.