Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott, alongside Representative Andy Harris, has taken the lead in urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson to reject Democratic demands perceived as obstructive to President Trump's agenda. The letter from the group emphasizes the importance of supporting President Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in their efforts to curb federal spending.

The communication is backed by a number of Republican Senators and Representatives including Marsha Blackburn, Ted Budd, Ron Johnson, Cynthia Lummis, Bernie Moreno, Mike Lee, Eric Schmitt, Tommy Tuberville, Andy Biggs, Sheri Biggs, Andrew Clyde, Clay Higgins, Paul Gosar, Brandon Gill, Mark Harris, Andy Ogles, Anna Paulina Luna, Barry Moore and Ralph Norman.

In their letter to Thune and Johnson they stated: "President Trump campaigned on a promise to the American people to reduce the size and scope of the federal government... His clear message that taxpayers deserve to know not only how their money is being spent but also that it is being spent responsibly resonated with voters."

With a government funding deadline approaching on March 14th, concerns have been raised about Democratic demands in negotiations that may inhibit DOGE's efforts. The letter warns against provisions that might limit President Trump's authority or hinder DOGE's work in promoting fiscal transparency.

The lawmakers argue: "Rather than negotiating in good faith to find a solution that keeps the government open... Democrats are insisting that any government funding deal include policy provisions that would tie the hands of the President."

They further assert: "We stand ready to work with you... However we will not support a government funding package that would be weaponized against President Trump..."

As discussions continue around maintaining governmental operations past mid-March without hindering ongoing efforts for budget efficiency led by DOGE under Trump's administration, this letter underscores Republicans' commitment to reducing federal expenditure while resisting measures they view as counterproductive.