Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) released the following statement as Congressional Republicans canceled votes and blocked bipartisan negotiation attempts to avoid a health care crisis, shutting down the government.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and White House.  They have not only the ability but the responsibility to prevent—and now to end—a government shutdown by putting a bill on the floor of the House and the Senate that has the votes to pass.  It’s that simple,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “This Congress has given away its power to direct government funding to the White House.  And the White House has demanded that Congress just allow it continue to proceed with its disastrous policies—including raising costs, cutting healthcare, and more—with no accountability or oversight.  That is no way to govern.  

“Congressional Democrats have made clear that we want to keep government open,” Fletcher continued.  “I returned to Washington this week for this purpose, and I am committed to doing so.  I am ready to work to find a bipartisan solution on a spending bill that protects health care coverage for millions of Americans and that funds our government in a responsible manner.”

During the shutdown, Congresswoman Fletcher’s Houston and Washington offices will continue to operate and staff will be available to answer questions.  To contact the Houston office, call (713) 353-8680.  To contact the Washington office, call (202) 225-2571.  Congresswoman Fletcher’s website has answers to specific and anticipated Frequently Asked Questions regarding the shutdown.