Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., warned Friday that Democrats will face a significant penalty in the upcoming midterm elections for the partial government shutdown, stating the standoff is jeopardizing U.S. safety and exposing deep divisions within his party.
Speaking to reporters, Carter accused Democrats of prioritizing political agendas over national security during an ongoing conflict with Iran and heightened global tensions. “Yes, they will pay a price,” he said. “They’ll pay a price at voting booths come November. There’s no question about that.”
The shutdown has already impacted more than 100,000 Department of Homeland Security employees, including Transportation Security Administration officers, Secret Service personnel, and Coast Guard members deployed overseas. Many received paychecks with zero dollars, raising concerns about morale and operational readiness.
“At a time when we are at war and facing serious threats, Democrats are leaving Americans vulnerable,” Carter said, accusing lawmakers such as Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., of putting “illegal immigrants and terrorists above the safety of the American people.” The Georgia congressman also noted growing divisions within Democratic ranks on foreign policy.
Carter referenced remarks by Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., who acknowledged Iran’s long-standing hostility toward the U.S., including its pursuit of nuclear weapons and involvement in attacks on Americans. Carter praised those comments as “straightforward,” arguing they reflect a broader realization among some Democrats that the threat from Iran cannot be ignored.
“This president is finally addressing a threat that has existed for 47 years,” Carter said. “When you have a country chanting ‘death to America’ and with American blood on its hands, we have to take action.”
The comments come as the Trump administration and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle continue debating how to respond to Iran’s actions in the Middle East. Recent reports indicate bipartisan concerns about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and regional aggression, even as Democrats remain divided on broader strategy.
Carter also urged swift passage of the SAVE America Act, which would require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. He described it as “common-sense legislation” widely supported by voters. “Our democracy is at risk if we don’t get this passed,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Carter expressed confidence Republicans will maintain control of Congress and expand their majorities, citing an improving economy and what he called President Donald Trump’s decisive leadership. “As things get better, the American people are going to recognize it,” he added. “We’re going to grow our majorities.”
