Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman on Sunday voiced criticism of his own party over the ongoing government shutdown, saying Democrats are sending the “wrong message” in their handling of the budget impasse.“Shutting our government down. That’s the wrong message for the world, for Americans as well, too,” Fetterman told “Sunday Morning Futures” host Maria Bartiromo.“I don’t care whose that blame is. It’s not about a blame game. It’s about opening this government, having this conversation, and literally let’s address these kinds of healthcare issues as well too,” he went on.In an interview with Fox News, Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman said he will “never” support a government shutdown, criticizing lawmakers who refuse to negotiate and urging both parties to reach an agreement to end the stalemate.
“It was wrong if the Republicans did these things, and I led that charge back in March, saying it’s wrong to shut us down, and we kept it open. I said then, back in March, that, when September comes, I’m going to be the one guy that’s saying it is wrong to do this,” he said.
“Really, the losers are these poor Americans here that are going to get caught in the middle of this thing. I fully support [having] a conversation about extending those [Obamacare] tax credits. I think a lot of Republicans might even agree with that too,” he said.
“That’s a priority for us, and they might agree, but let’s get our government open and have that conversation, so people can get paid, and we can’t have this kind of chaos,” he continued.
Since the government shutdown began on October 1, both parties have engaged in mutual blame. Republicans have labeled the budget impasse the “Schumer shutdown,” while Democrats have demanded that Republicans and President Trump agree to extend Obamacare tax credits, which are set to expire at the end of the year.
Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine joined Sen. John Fetterman in voting for the Republican-backed stopgap funding bill aimed at keeping the government open.
The measure requires 60 votes to advance, leaving Republicans five votes short of the threshold needed for passage.
On Friday, Trump ordered Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to use “all available funds” to pay U.S. troops on Oct. 15, as the ongoing government shutdown that has threatened military paychecks for 1.3 million active duty service members.
The federal government shut down on Oct. 1 after lawmakers failed to pass a funding bill. Democrats in the Senate have repeatedly blocked efforts to reopen the government, leading to the first situation in American history where active-duty troops could miss a paycheck.
Trump said he would not allow that to happen.
“Chuck Schumer recently said, ‘Every day gets better’ during their Radical Left Shutdown. I DISAGREE!” Trump wrote Friday on Truth Social. “If nothing is done, because of ‘Leader’ Chuck Schumer and the Democrats, our Brave Troops will miss the paychecks they are rightfully due on October 15th.”
“That is why I am using my authority, as Commander in Chief, to direct our Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to use all available funds to get our Troops PAID on October 15th,” the president continued. “We have identified funds to do this, and Secretary Hegseth will use them to PAY OUR TROOPS.”
“I will not allow the Democrats to hold our Military, and the entire Security of our Nation, HOSTAGE, with their dangerous Government Shutdown,” Trump added. “The Radical Left Democrats should OPEN THE GOVERNMENT, and then we can work together to address Healthcare, and many other things that they want to destroy.”
The administration has been reviewing options to ensure military pay continues without congressional approval.
Few could have imagined that the closing chapter of Rob Burrow’s extraordinary life would align so poignantly with the birth of a new legacy.
As news of his battle with motor neurone disease (MND) quietly spread through Leeds, plans were already in motion to inaugurate an MND research center in his name—mere hours before his passing.
For fans and friends, the timing was both heart-wrenching and profoundly meaningful, symbolizing a life that continues to inspire beyond the pitch.
Family, friends, and supporters gathered in Leeds to honor Rob Burrow, the celebrated Leeds Rhinos and England Rugby League star, who passed away at 41 after a courageous fight with MND.
His death coincided with the launch of the Rob Burrow MND Research Centre, ensuring that his impact will endure in both sport and medical research.
A civic reception at Leeds Civic Hall, led by Lord Mayor Abigail Marshall Katung, celebrated Burrow’s remarkable achievements and his unwavering spirit. Around 180 attendees, including family members, teammates like Jamie Jones-Buchanan, MND Association CEO Tanya Curry, and Leeds City Council leader James Lewis, paid tribute.
Thousands more lined the streets of West Yorkshire, many donning Leeds Rhinos shirts, forming a moving tribute to a local hero. Junior players from Featherstone Lions ARLFC, where Burrow first began his rugby journey, also joined in honoring his memory.
Burrow’s wife Lindsey, married to him since 2006, walked alongside their three children—Macy, Maya, and Jackson—accompanied by his sisters Joanne and Claire, and parents Geoff and Irene. Floral tributes adorned the hearse, bearing messages of love and remembrance such as “Dad,” “Bro,” and “Son.”
The procession paused at the Featherstone Lions’ ground, allowing mourners to sign a condolence book and reflect on the journey of a man whose courage inspired millions. In his final message to the world, Burrow urged others to never “waste a moment” and always “dare to dream.”
Conclusion
Rob Burrow’s life exemplified courage, dedication, and inspiration. On the field, he was a rugby legend; off it, a beacon of resilience in the face of MND. From the streets of West Yorkshire to hearts across the world, his legacy lives on—both through his sporting achievements and the fight against motor neurone disease. Burrow’s words and actions remain a timeless reminder to embrace every moment, chase every dream, and leave a lasting impact that transcends life itself.
The entertainment world is reeling from a sudden and tragic loss. Just thirty minutes ago, Lauren Hashian, wife of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, informed fans that the beloved actor, athlete, and global icon had passed away. Known not only for his charismatic performances on screen and in the wrestling ring but also for his inspiring life story and unwavering dedication to family, Johnson’s passing leaves a void that transcends Hollywood, touching fans, colleagues, and admirers worldwide.