Sioux City Times

Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican representing Iowa, posted a series of statements on October 15, 2025, regarding the ongoing government shutdown and its financial and operational impact. Ernst attributed the shutdown to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and expressed concern over its effects on taxpayers and military personnel.

In her first post at 16:45 UTC, Ernst wrote: "The Schumer Shutdown hurts American taxpayers, but President Trump is working hard to ensure our servicemembers will not miss their paycheck. Schumer needs to stop the shenanigans and reopen the government today."

Later that day at 18:37 UTC, she stated: "Democrats doubled down on their Schumer Shutdown and refused to reopen the government – even if it meant our servicemembers missed a paycheck. President Trump made sure our brave men and women in uniform did not fall victim to Schumer's Shenanigans. Thank you, President Trump!"

In a third post at 20:37 UTC, Ernst addressed the financial implications of the shutdown: "The cost of Schumer's Shutdown Shenanigans hits $4.4 billion today. Taxpayers will continue to be forced to foot a $400 million bill for every day of the shutdown to pay 750,000 'non-essential' federal employees to sit at home and NOT WORK."

Government shutdowns in the United States occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations legislation funding federal government operations and agencies. During such periods, "non-essential" federal employees are furloughed, and certain government services are paused until funding is restored. Historically, debates over government funding have led to multiple shutdowns, with disagreements often centered around policy priorities or budget allocations.

The ongoing 2025 shutdown has prompted discussions about its impact on federal workers, military pay, and broader economic consequences for taxpayers.