Detroit City Wire

At midnight on September 30, 2025, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib posted a series of statements on her official social media account regarding the imminent federal government shutdown and its political implications. Tlaib, who represents Michigan’s 12th district in the U.S. Congress and has served since 2019, directly attributed responsibility for the shutdown to Republican lawmakers.

In a post dated September 30, 2025, Tlaib stated: "At midnight tonight, the federal government will shut down because Republicans can't be bothered to even show up. We're here ready to keep the government open and protect Americans' health care."

Later that evening, she expanded on her criticism by highlighting party control in Washington: "Republicans control the House, Senate, and White House. This shutdown is on them. I'm not signing a blank check to fund Trump's lawlessness while they kick 17 million Americans off their health care." This statement references ongoing debates over healthcare policy and executive action under then-President Trump.

Shortly after midnight on October 1, Tlaib shared an additional message referencing her formal response: "My statement on the government shutdown:"

Tlaib’s remarks follow her history as an outspoken member of Congress representing Michigan's 12th District since replacing Brenda Jones in 2019. She previously served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 to 2014. Born in Detroit in 1976 and currently residing there at age 46, Tlaib holds degrees from Wayne State University (BA) and Thomas M. Cooley Law School (JD).

The government shutdown referenced by Tlaib comes amid broader disputes between Congressional Democrats and Republicans over budget priorities and healthcare coverage for millions of Americans.