Shutdown Shenanigans: This Was Totally Avoidable
The government shutdown wouldn’t have happened if funding of congressional salaries were also frozen (“Shut Down, Jan. 20).
The immigration issues that led to the shutdown could have been resolved going forward, after a spending bill was approved. And citizens shouldn’t have had to suffer because of disagreements over immigration issues. The needs of the country should come first, and we the people deserve better. Mel Young Lawrence
These government officials, whom we, the voters, put into office to represent our best interests, are not doing their job. If this was done in the private sector, you’d probably hear, “You’re fired!” Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Glen Oaks Village
There was no excuse for a government shutdown when President Trump and the Republican Party control both the Senate and House of Representatives.
All Trump needs is for Republicans to vote his way, and he can’t even get that. Edward Drossman Manhattan
Our country was founded by men of morals, ethics and principles. Today, nearly 250 years later, our country is governed by unethical, immoral fools. Rolly A. Lessin Staten Island
The government shutdown had nothing to do with the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or any other policy issues. It was just a way for Democrats to rain on Trump’s parade. Bill Isler Floral Park
It’s exhausting, discouraging and unconscionable how ineffective our two major parties have become.
Special mention goes to those responsible for gerrymandering voting districts to strengthen their party but ultimately weaken our democracy. Bob Bascelli Seaford