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House Democrats Slam Republicans Over Congress Absence During Shutdown

11/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

House Democrats criticized Republicans for an eight-week absence from Congress during a government shutdown.
Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) expressed disbelief at their absence, and Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) questioned their commitment.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) defended the recess, saying it allowed members to work in their districts.
The dispute underscores ongoing tensions as the government shutdown unfolds.

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Story summary

House Democrats criticized Republicans for an eight-week absence from Congress during a government shutdown.
Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) expressed disbelief at their absence, and Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) questioned their commitment.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) defended the recess, saying it allowed members to work in their districts.
The dispute underscores ongoing tensions as the government shutdown unfolds.