It’s time for a new post on how Iowa’s representatives in the U.S. House and Senate are handling the ongoing shutdown of non-essential federal government operations. (Click here for details on Congressional votes and Iowa political reaction up to October 1.)

Thousands of Iowans who work for the federal government or serve in the National Guard still have no idea when they’ll receive their next paycheck. The best news I’ve heard all week is that an estimated 66,000 Iowa women and children who receive benefits through the WIC program will get their checks for October, at least.  

Although there has been no progress toward an agreement on a continuing spending resolution, I’ve noticed one big change in Iowa Congressional voting during the last few days. Whereas Representatives Bruce Braley (IA-01) and Dave Loebsack (IA-02) were sticking with most of their fellow Democrats in earlier votes on federal spending, this week both Braley and Loebsack have joined House Republican attempts to fund the federal government in bits and pieces. Follow me after the jump for more details.

The U.S. Senate hasn’t voted on any spending bills since tabling the last few House-approved continuing resolutions, which also would have defunded or delayed aspects of the 2010 health care reform law.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and President Barack Obama are demanding that the House pass a “clean” continuing resolution to fund the government. Democrats have already made a big concession in agreeing to keep most federal spending at the lower “sequester” level, rather than at the level originally approved for the 2013 fiscal year. The president no longer appears open to a so-called “grand bargain” tying a funding bill to more long-term deficit reduction plans.

At least 20 House Republicans and probably many more would likely join House Democrats to vote for the last continuing spending resolution approved by the Senate. But House Speaker John Boehner is under intense pressure from the right wing of his caucus not to cave by bringing a clean spending resolution to the House floor. The hard-liners include Iowa’s own Steve King and several dozen others, including many first elected to Congress relatively recently.

Appearing on CNN October 2, King continued to insist on defunding Obamacare as a condition for funding the government or raising the debt ceiling again.

“I want to see the end of Obamacare, the public has rejected Obamacare,” King told CNN’s Chris Cuomo. “You hear the discussion about the Supreme Court found it constitutional. That was before Barack Obama just unilaterally and unconstitutionally changed Obamacare at least twice.” […]

“But we need to get down to the clear part of this,” he continued. “The American people have rejected Obamacare. The president is willing to put all of that on the line to save his namesake legislation, which I think would go down in history as the largest political tantrum ever.”

“Why is it the president putting his reputation or whatever you want to call it on the line when it is you and your faction that made the shutdown a condition of funding the government and dealing with Obamacare?” Cuomo wondered. “You did that, not the president. Shouldn’t it be on you?”

“I think you have to ask the Founding Fathers why they granted the authority to Congress then,” King declared. “We’re at this point now where’s if we allow Obamacare to be implemented then we can never recover from it.”

“It will diminish the trajectory of the American destiny by turning us into a dependency society. That’s what’s wrong with this. And I will hold my stand here as long anybody will in this Congress.”

Even if only a few dozen House Republicans share King’s commitment to this position, several dozen more might feel vulnerable to pressure from that faction.

So, in an effort to save his speakership, John Boehner has refused to bring up the one bill that could quickly end the shutdown. Instead, he is trying to shield his caucus from the most politically painful implications of not funding the government. Several small funding bills cleared the House this week in response to damaging news reports about the impact of the shutdown. Tourists and war veterans unable to gain access to national memorials? Pass a bill to fund the National Park Service. Don’t want people to hear about veterans losing benefits? Pass a bill to fund the Department of Veterans Affairs. Don’t want people to hear about cancer patients being turned away from clinical trials? Pass a bill to fund the National Institutes of Health. That last bill is particularly cynical, considering that House Republicans demanded big cuts in the NIH budget as part of the “sequester” to cut federal spending.

You can find all the latest House roll call votes here. On October 1, House leaders brought up three small funding bills under a suspension of the rules, which requires a two-thirds majority to pass. The votes to fund veterans benefits, the government of the District of Columbia, and the National Park Service all received a majority vote but not a two-thirds majority. Braley was among the House Democrats who voted for all three bills. Loebsack voted to fund veterans benefits and the park service, but not the Washington, DC government. Iowa Republicans Tom Latham (IA-03) and Steve King (IA-04) voted for all three bills.

House leaders brought up two bills again on October 2 under normal rules. Braley and Loebsack were among 23 House Democrats who supported the park service funding bill and among 25 Democrats who voted to fund the National Institutes for Health. On October 3, Braley and Loebsack were among 36 Democrats who voted for the “Pay Our Guard and Reserve Act,” and among 35 Democrats who voted for veterans benefits.

This afternoon, the House is scheduled to vote on bills that would continue funding for “the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and nutrition programs for low-income women and children.” I expect Braley and Loebsack to join Republicans again in approving these bills.

I understand their behavior. Braley and Loebsack don’t want to face attack ads in the U.S. Senate race or IA-02 next year accusing them of standing in the way of veterans getting benefits or people in need getting food assistance. I’m just thankful that a critical mass of Congressional Democrats aren’t acting like scared rabbits–otherwise it would create the illusion of real bipartisan support for the House GOP’s position.

Fortunately, President Obama and Senate Democratic leaders have shown no interest in funding the federal government in small pieces. Not only is the approach impractical, since you’d need hundreds of mini-bills to finish the job, it’s also tantamount to letting the House Republicans disband federal agencies they hate. They probably would never get around to bills funding, say, the Environmental Protection Agency or the Department of Education.

Any relevant comments are welcome in this thread. I enclose below the latest official statements from Iowa’s four U.S. representatives.

UPDATE: Braley and Loebsack were among 23 Democrats who joined all of the House Republicans present to approve a mini-bill funding FEMA for fiscal year 2014. A little later on October 4, they were among 22 Democrats joining Republicans to pass a bill funding the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children for fiscal year 2014.

On October 5, all House Democrats and Republicans present voted to “provide for the compensation of furloughed Federal employees.” The vote is intended to ensure that furloughed federal workers receive back pay once the shutdown ends. Also on Saturday, a near-unanimous vote including all four Iowans expressed “the sense of Congress regarding the need for the continued availability of religious services to members of the Armed Forces and their families during a lapse in appropriations.” That resolution asks the Obama administration to “allow contract chaplains who have been furloughed to continue offering prayer services on a volunteer basis.”

Statement from Braley’s office, October 1:

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) released the following statement:

“A government shutdown is likely to create a number of problems for Iowans.

“For example, more than 1,000 Iowa National Guard employees will likely be furloughed. Processing of Social Security and veterans benefit applications could be delayed. Enrollment in farm programs administered by the Agriculture Department will likely be halted.

“I’ve instructed my staff to do everything within our ability to help Iowans negatively affected by a shutdown, even while my office is short-staffed.

“If you’re experiencing a problem that needs urgent attention but are unable to get the help you need because of the shutdown, I urge you to contact me using the following website: www.braley.house.gov/shutdown    

“Additionally, you may contact my Cedar Rapids office by phone at (319) 364-2288 or my Capitol office at (202) 225-2911.”

Statement from Loebsack’s office, October 1:

Loebsack Offices Ready to Serve All Iowans During Shutdown

Visit http://loebsack.house.gov/shut… to receive assistance during the shutdown

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dave Loebsack announced today that his office is open and stands ready to serve all Iowans during the federal government shutdown. His district offices in Iowa City and Davenport, along with his Washington, D.C. office, are currently open and staffed during normal business hours. His toll-free phone number (1-866-914-IOWA) will be answered during normal business hours. Iowans can also visit http://loebsack.house.gov/shut… to seek assistance.

“My number one priority as a Representative is making sure the needs of Iowans continue to be met even during a shutdown,” said Loebsack. “Just because the government remains closed, does not mean folks don’t need assistance dealing with federal agencies and working families don’t need support. In order to work on everything from ensuring seniors receive their Social Security checks to fighting for legislation to support the men and women working at the Rock Island Arsenal, my offices are open in order to best represent Iowans. I will continue working to mitigate the impact dysfunction in Washington has on Iowans during this time.”

Contact Information for Congressman Loebsack

Toll Free Number:

1-866-914-IOWA (4692)

Davenport District Office:

(563) 323-5988

Iowa City District Office:

(319) 351-0789

Washington, DC Office:

(202) 225-6576

Statement from Loebsack’s office, October 2:

Military Leader to Loebsack: “Disruptive and Unfortunate” Don’t Begin to Address Impact of Shutdown

LtGen Faulkner: “Words like disruptive and unfortunate don’t even begin to address the impact of this shutdown”

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dave Loebsack today questioned military leaders about the effects that the shutdown is having on our nation’s military and Department of Defense civilian workforce such as those at Rock Island Arsenal at a House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness hearing. Loebsack questioned United States Army Lieutenant General Raymond Mason, Deputy Chief of Staff, Logistics and Marine Corps Lieutenant General William Faulkner, Deputy Commandant for Installations and Logistics. When asked for his assessment of what the shutdown means to the civilian workforce who support our troops and who have been furloughed, Faulkner stated “Words like disruptive and unfortunate don’t even begin to address the impact of this shutdown on our Marine civilians.”

Lieutenant General Faulkner followed up this statement by saying: “more descriptive words, such as disrespectful, are more appropriate.”

“We are now in our second day of the shutdown and I could not agree with the General more. This shutdown is disrespectful to our troops, as well as the civilians who work day and night to support them. Republicans and Democrats must come together immediately to find a way forward to end this needless shutdown,” said Congressman Loebsack.

Video of the remark can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v… (Preview)

The full video of Loebsack’s questions can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…

Statement from King’s office, October 2:

King: Reflective of the Needs & Priorities of the American People

Washington, DC – Congressman Steve King released the following statement after voting on three separate appropriations bills of immediate priority. The measures are H. J. Res. 71, the Provide Local Funding for the District of Columbia Act; H. J. Res 70, Open Our Nation’s Parks and Museums Act; and H.J. Res. 73, the Research for Lifesaving Cures.

“House Republicans do not want a government shutdown,” said King. “We want a resolution reflective of the needs and priorities of the American people. The government is temporarily and partially shutdown nonetheless, but the House has consistently put offers on the table and the Senate has repeatedly refused to negotiate. The House acted to alleviate a few of the most pressing concerns today by passing three bills: one to open our national parks and museums, one to ensure funding for the District of Columbia, and a third for funding for research for lifesaving cures.

The Senate should act on the House amendments to the Continuing Resolution to re-open the government. The Senate should go to conference on the Continuing Resolution to negotiate through our differences. Finally, in the absence of either of those responsible actions, the Senate should act on these bills on which both parties agree.“

King press release, October 3:

King Votes to Pay National Guard and Reserve Troops; Fund Assistance for Veterans

Washington, DC – Congressman Steve King released the following statement after the House voted to pass two separate appropriations bills of immediate priority. The measures are H.R. 3230, the Pay Our Guard and Reserve Act and H.J. Res. 72, the Honoring Our Promise to America’s Veterans Act.

“Time and again the House has voted to keep the critical parts of the government funded in light of the partial shutdown,” said King. “Today, we passed yet another two measures, this time to provide the necessary aid for two of the most vital components of our nation’s armed services – our National Guard and Reserves and our veterans. I am glad to see these measures passed today to give our National Guard and Reserves the assurance they need to continue to put their lives on the line in service to our country, and assistance for our veterans who have already sacrificed so much. It is time for the Senate to act and then for the President to sign these into law immediately.”

Statement from Latham’s office, October 1:

LATHAM RELEASES GUIDE TO HELP ANSWER IOWAN’S QUESTIONS ON SHUTDOWN

POSTED ON OCTOBER 01, 2013

Washington, DC – Iowa Congressman Tom Latham released a guide Tuesday that provides information for Iowans on the effects of a federal government shutdown on various federal services. “This guide was created to help Iowans with some of the initial questions and concerns they may have regarding the federal government shutdown that began today,” said Latham. “I have supported all measures in the House to keep our government running and I am working to move us forward and get the full government working again. Until that time, my office is here to help.” The guide – available on Latham’s website at Latham.House.Gov provides information from what Social Security recipients can expect to which of his offices are open during the shutdown. It can also be accessed directly at: http://latham.house.gov/upload…

Statement from Iowa Democratic Party, October 4:

Brennan: It’s Time for Tom Latham to Use His Relationship with Speaker Boehner to Help Iowans, Not the Tea Party

Des Moines – As the federal government arrives at the fourth day of the government shut down, Iowa Democratic Party Chair Scott Brennan has one message for Congressman Tom Latham – get to work to help Iowans.

“Tom Latham has prided himself on his close relationship with Speaker Boehner, but when has that relationship actually helped our state?” said Iowa Democratic Party Chair Scott Brennan.  “Thousands of Iowans today are not working because of Speaker Boehner and the reckless GOP government shutdown, and many thousands more are wondering if and when they will have access to the services they rely up for food, housing, or health care.  Congressman Latham, do what is best for your constituents, not your pal and your party, and tell John Boehner to end this government shut down now. ”

How the federal government shutdown is impacting Iowa:

·         Over 1,000 Iowa National Guard employees are furloughed. Roughly 50 percent of Iowa National Guard employees are without income, threatening the steady income that many working families rely on [KWWL 10/3/13].

·         180 state workers are furloughed from two Iowa state agencies. Iowa Workforce Development have furloughed 69 employees, and Department of Public Defense will sideline 111 employees – and Terry Branstad hasn’t said a word about it [Des Moines Register 10/3/13].

·         Social Security benefits for seniors who depend on them will be delayed and new claims will not be processed.  As a result of furloughs and service cuts during the last shutdown, 112,000 claims for Social Security and disability benefits were not taken, 212,000 applications for Social Security Numbers were not taken, and 800,000 callers were denied service on the Social Security’s Administration 1-800 number.  In 2012, 600,699 people received Social Security benefits in Iowa [SSA History; SAA 2012].

·         The temporary extension of the Farm Bill will expire. The most immediate impact will be the shutdown of programs that promote the sale of U.S. farm commodities overseas, and the price of milk could increase to $8 a gallon [Des Moines Register 10/1/13; Radio Iowa 9/30/13; Roll Call 9/25/13].

·         Head Start Centers across Iowa could be forced to close their doors, leaving young children without the proper care needed during the school day.  During FY12, an estimated 1,600 Head Start agencies served over 950,000 children, including 8,133 children in Iowa. Currently, 5,000 children nationwide are without Head Start services [CAP 4/11; HHS; CRS 1/9/13; Washington Post 10/3/13].

·         New Iowa veterans could be denied education and vocational rehabilitation benefits. During the 1995-96 shutdowns, more than 400,000 veterans saw their disability benefits and pension claims delayed, while educational benefits were delayed for 170,000 veterans.  Iowa has 233,815 veterans [Army Times 2/3/11; CNN ¼/96; VA].

·         Thousands of Rock Island Arsenal employees could be out of work.  In 1995, about half of the 6,200 workers were deemed non-exempt and put on hiatus.  Currently, there are 4,746 civilian employees at the Arsenal, and Arsenal leadership has stated that “a large number of our civilian employees could be furloughed.” [Letter from RIA, 9/24/13]

·         9,000 federal employees could be furloughed and out of work.  These workers may see reductions in their pay and will be forced to say home because the government was shuttered [Census; Washington Post 9/23/13].

·         Iowa small businesses could be denied approval for SBA-guaranteed loans for small business working capital, real estate investment or job creation activities.  In FY2012, the SBA’s flagship 7(a) and 504 loans programs approved 53,847 applications and supported 571,383 jobs, for an average of just over 1,000 applications per week.  A shutdown would put a stop to this critical source of credit for small businesses until the government resumes operation.  According to the SBA, Iowa is home to 61,633 small businesses [Small Business Administration FY14 Budget Justification; SBA].