Shaheen Statement on Senate-Passage of Legislation to Raise Debt Ceiling, Pay U.S.’ Outstanding Financial Obligations

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after voting in favor of legislation to raise the debt ceiling, which passed the Senate by a vote of 50-49. It will next be considered by the House of Representatives. Earlier this year, Shaheen called out Republican obstruction to raising the debt ceiling, which both parties supported three separate times under the Trump administration to ensure the U.S. did not default on its debts.

“Raising the debt ceiling is about meeting our nation’s existing financial obligations and maintaining our reputation on the global stage – this never should have become a political football for Senate Republicans and it’s really unfortunate this dragged out for so long. As we approach year two of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last thing we should ever experience is partisan rancor that increases pressure on the United States’ financial security. I’m glad the Senate passed this bill and I urge the House to move swiftly,” said Shaheen.

“Democrats worked with Republicans three times under the Trump administration to raise the debt ceiling, and Minority Leader McConnell specifically voted to increase or suspend the debt limit 32 times. This is not about politics - it is about paying our debts, protecting our nation’s economy and upholding the United States’ good name in the international community as a reliable and respected partner. Going forward, I hope Republicans can put this partisanship behind us – the American people demand and deserve it.”

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