Republican Flips On Trump
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) is pushing back hard against a controversial White House plan that would allow permanent layoffs at federal agencies if government funding runs out on October 1st.
During a heated CNN interview, Lawler rejected the proposal, which came from President Biden’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB), calling it a dangerous overreach that would hurt hardworking Americans.
“No, I don’t support permanent layoffs at these agencies,” Lawler said.
“But the real question is why Chuck Schumer is refusing to pass a clean bill to keep the government open. That’s where the focus should be.”
CNN Host Presses, Lawler Fires Back
CNN host John Berman repeatedly pressed Lawler for a straight answer on whether he supports the OMB’s layoff plan.
As Berman tried to interject, Lawler doubled down, blasting Senate Democrats for playing politics with a potential shutdown.
Finally, Berman demanded a clear yes or no:
“If there is a shutdown, do you support permanent layoffs at federal agencies?”
Lawler’s answer was decisive:
“No, I don’t.”
Biden’s Memo Sparks Outrage
The Biden administration memo at the center of the controversy outlines permanent firings of federal employees, not the temporary furloughs historically used during shutdowns.
Lawler reminded viewers that in the 2013 shutdown under President Barack Obama, the executive branch determined which services were essential — but those moves were temporary, not permanent.
Many conservatives see this as yet another power grab by the Biden White House designed to punish federal workers and pressure Republicans during negotiations.
Lawler Backs Speaker Johnson’s Plan
Lawler is throwing his support behind House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) plan to maintain current spending levels until November 21st.
He sharply criticized Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who have threatened to block the measure unless it removes Medicaid reform measures.
“It is fundamentally wrong,” Lawler said. “I’ve voted for every continuing resolution because no one wins in a shutdown. The American people lose. The economy suffers. It’s simply wrong.”
Why This Fight Matters
With the deadline just days away, both parties are playing a high-stakes game that could impact:
- Federal workers’ livelihoods
- Social Security and Medicare processing
- The overall U.S. economy
- Military and defense readiness
For seniors and retirees who depend on reliable government services, the outcome of this battle could have serious consequences.
Bottom Line
Rep. Mike Lawler has made it clear: He rejects Biden’s plan for permanent federal layoffs and is urging Congress to pass a clean funding bill to protect the American people.
As October 1st approaches, Republicans and Democrats are locked in a showdown that will determine whether the government stays open — or whether Americans will pay the price for Washington’s dysfunction.
