Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt commented on the ongoing government shutdown and immigration policy in a series of posts on November 5, 2025.

In his first post, Schmitt criticized Democrats' motives regarding the government shutdown. On November 5, 2025, he wrote: "For Democrats, this shutdown has been about one thing—proving to their radical base that they are 'fighting back' against President Trump."

Later that day, Schmitt addressed Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer directly and described the effects of the prolonged shutdown. On November 5, 2025, he stated: "Day 36 of the Schumer Shutdown—now the longest in history. Airports are facing delays, federal workers aren't getting paid, benefits are running dry, and small businesses are hurting. Is every day still getting better for you, @SenSchumer?"

In another post on the same day, Schmitt turned his attention to U.S. immigration programs. He wrote: '"America First" means building an immigration system where this would be impossible. This is the direct result of the rampant abuse of immigration programs like H-1B and OPT. The fact that this is happening "legally" makes it worse — not better.'

The current government shutdown began over disagreements between congressional Democrats and Republicans over funding priorities and border security measures. Government shutdowns occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills or continuing resolutions to fund federal agencies; during such periods many federal employees work without pay or are furloughed until funding is restored.

The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program enables international students with F-1 visas to work in their field for up to three years after graduation.