By Sandy Fitzgerald | Thursday, 09 October 2025 08:27 AM EDT
The nation faces “a critical moment” in the ongoing government shutdown, with civilian federal workers and military personnel enduring delayed paychecks, as Senator James Lankford, R-Okla., urged Democrats to end the stalemate. Speaking on “Wake Up America,” Lankford emphasized that civilian workers will miss their Friday payments, while military members face unpaid wages by next Wednesday.
Lankford criticized President Donald Trump for diverting tariff funds to the Women, Infants, and Children program but highlighted broader disruptions, including furloughed IRS agents nationwide. “There are all kinds of issues across the country,” he said, calling on Democrats to “finally come on board” and restore government operations.
The shutdown, now in its ninth day, has seen six failed Senate attempts to pass a continuing resolution, with Lankford noting early signs of Democratic movement but warning of ongoing political obstruction. “They continue to shut the government down and cause chaos,” he said, accusing Democrats of prioritizing ideological battles over public welfare.
Lankford accused Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., of resisting compromise to appease progressive factions within his party. “Chuck Schumer will still vote against it,” Lankford claimed, suggesting Democrats are using the shutdown to energize their base ahead of an Oct. 18 protest. He dismissed the political strategy as illogical for average Americans struggling with unpaid bills and uncertain futures.
On foreign policy, Lankford praised Trump’s progress on the Gaza peace deal, calling it a “huge gain” and emotional milestone for hostage families. “Hallelujah,” he said, expressing hope that the first group of hostages could be released by weekend. He reiterated demands that Hamas cannot lead Gaza, framing the issue as a clear priority in the peace plan.
