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WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) released this statement following the House vote to fund the government hours before a GOP shutdown that would have hurt working Americans and impeded millions this holiday season:

“Thanks to Democrats, once again, we have avoided a painful shutdown. Republicans were shamed into finally taking action mere hours before the doors of government were set to close. But it didn’t have to be this way. If Republicans had simply stuck to the negotiated agreement, we could have prevented the fear and uncertainly of millions of workers who spent these days wondering if they were going to be paid at the end of the month. We could have prevented the despair of the communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton who had to wonder if relief would ever come.

“Instead, President-elect Trump and House Republicans bent to the will of the richest man in the world rather than stand up for the American people.

“Tonight, I united with my Democratic colleagues on behalf of our communities to prevent a government shutdown. Moving forward, we’ll always stand against the interests of billionaires over hardworking families and serve the American people. I hope that next time, Republicans don’t have to be cowed into joining us.”