Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt, a Republican representing Missouri in the U.S. Senate, addressed several issues related to China, government funding, and partisan politics in a series of tweets posted on November 10 and 11, 2025.

In a post on November 10, Schmitt commented on the origins of fentanyl production and recent actions by former President Donald Trump: "The chemicals to produce fentanyl come from China. President Trump has been clear, China must step up and do their part to stem the flow. This is a great step in the right direction. Thank you, @realDonaldTrump!" Schmitt's remarks highlight ongoing concerns regarding China's role in supplying precursor chemicals used for illicit fentanyl production.

Later that day, Schmitt criticized Democratic lawmakers over recent legislative gridlock: "Democrats held the American people hostage for 40 days just to prove they are the 'resistance' and they can 'fight' Trump. Their time is up. No more political games. No more hostage-taking. Time to get back to work." His comments refer to a prolonged impasse over government funding that delayed congressional action.

On November 11, Schmitt acknowledged bipartisan cooperation that led to progress on federal funding: "Finally a handful of Democrats came around & joined Republicans to fund the govt. The sooner we can pay federal law enforcement officers, air traffic controllers, & federal workers the better. No more playing with hardworking Americans' livelihoods for cheap political points."

Fentanyl remains a major public health concern in the United States due to its potency and high risk of overdose deaths. Much of the precursor material for fentanyl production originates from overseas suppliers including China; this has been an ongoing focus of U.S.-China relations as policymakers seek solutions to curb drug trafficking.

The recent dispute referenced by Schmitt involved negotiations between Democrats and Republicans over government appropriations bills necessary to keep federal agencies operational. Prolonged standoffs have previously resulted in partial government shutdowns affecting various services such as law enforcement operations and air traffic control.