Ex-Trump Official Blasts GOP for Government Shutdown Missteps

UPDATE: Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer has issued a scathing critique of Senate Republicans, calling their handling of a crucial government shutdown bill “embarrassing.” Spicer’s remarks come after Senate Democrats blocked the Shutdown Fairness Act of 2025, which aimed to ensure pay for military and federal workers during the ongoing shutdown.

Speaking on his podcast Friday, Spicer emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Senate Republicans should be embarrassed by how bad they’re messaging this.” He suggested that GOP leaders missed a critical opportunity by failing to publicly support the bill alongside military personnel and Border Patrol agents.

The legislation, introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), fell short of the necessary 60 votes to advance, with a final tally of 54-45. The bill would have guaranteed continued pay for “excepted” federal employees, including active-duty troops, TSA agents, park rangers, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol officers.

Spicer did not hold back in his criticism, labeling the Republicans’ response as “literally the lamest response” he had ever seen. “The idea that they voted and bolted is an embarrassment to the Republican Party,” he added, highlighting the emotional impact on federal workers and their families who are left in limbo amid the shutdown.

In response, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) dismissed the proposed legislation as a “ruse,” arguing that it would grant undue authority to Donald Trump’s budget director, Russell Vought. “We will not give Donald Trump a license to play politics with people’s livelihoods,” Schumer stated, underlining the contentious political climate surrounding the shutdown.

As the government shutdown continues, the implications are significant for millions of federal employees and their families. With critical services at risk and paychecks delayed, the stakes are high. The GOP’s failure to effectively advocate for the bill raises questions about their strategy moving forward.

WHAT’S NEXT: Observers will be watching closely as the Senate navigates this contentious issue, with potential repercussions for both parties as the shutdown persists. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, and the need for effective messaging and action is critical in the days ahead.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.