Gavin Newsom Critiques Senate Democrats Over Government Shutdown Deal

California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly criticized Senate Democrats for their recent decision to collaborate with Republicans to end the government shutdown, labeling the move as “pathetic” and a betrayal of working Americans. This criticism follows a procedural vote in which eight Democratic senators broke ranks to support a continuing resolution (CR) that funds the government through January 30, 2026, without securing an extension for enhanced Obamacare premium subsidies.

Breitbart‘A very bad night’: Democrats face blowback from their own party over shutdown dealBreitbartThe Hill

The eight Democratic senators who voted with Republicans include Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Angus King (I-ME), and John Fetterman (D-PA). Their decision has sparked significant backlash within the Democratic Party, with prominent figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Senator Elizabeth Warren expressing their discontent.

Breitbart

In a series of statements on social media, Newsom condemned the Senate vote, asserting that it represented a failure to stand firm against Republican pressure. He stated, “Tonight’s Senate vote on the federal government shutdown should have been a time for strength. Instead, we saw capitulation and a betrayal of working Americans.” Newsom's remarks come as he positions himself as a leading contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, capitalizing on the dissatisfaction among party members regarding the shutdown deal.

Breitbart

The backlash against the Senate Democrats' decision has been widespread. Senator Bernie Sanders characterized the vote as a “very bad night” for the party, arguing that it undermines the fight for healthcare access. Other Democratic governors, including Minnesota's Tim Walz and Illinois' JB Pritzker, have also expressed disappointment, with Pritzker labeling the agreement an “empty promise.” House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries indicated that those who voted for the GOP plan would need to justify their actions to their constituents.

‘A very bad night’: Democrats face blowback from their own party over shutdown deal

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) promised a future vote on healthcare subsidies as part of the deal, but many Democrats remain skeptical. Newsom's office emphasized that the agreement was not a true compromise, stating, “This isn’t a deal. It’s a surrender. Don’t bend the knee!” Meanwhile, some Senate Democrats defended their votes by highlighting the urgent need to reopen the government and ensure federal workers are paid.

Breitbart

While Newsom and other Democrats have expressed outrage over the deal, there are indications that some within the party may have welcomed the resolution to the shutdown. CNN reported that certain Senate Democrats were relieved that the eight defectors took the heat for the vote, suggesting a divide in opinion about the appropriateness of the decision.

Breitbart

As the political landscape evolves, Newsom's vocal opposition to the shutdown deal may bolster his standing among Democratic voters seeking a strong leader. With the 2028 presidential election on the horizon, the fallout from this incident could influence both his campaign strategy and the broader Democratic agenda moving forward.

The Hill