Congressman Troy E. Nehls has criticized Democratic lawmakers in a series of posts on social media, accusing them of repeatedly voting against measures to reopen the federal government and blaming them for ongoing hardships faced by federal workers.
On November 4, 2025, Nehls posted: “NEWS: Democrats just voted against reopening the government for the 14th time. Meanwhile, air traffic controllers, TSA officers and other federal workers continue to work without pay. Shameful.”
Later that day, he added: “This could be avoided if at least 5 Senate Democrats buck Chuck and vote to reopen the government!” The reference is to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The following day, Nehls further stated: “The men and women who keep our country safe are turning to food pantries or getting a second job just to take care of their families, all because of the Democrat Shutdown. It’s shameful. Chuck Schumer and Democrats: END THIS SHUTDOWN NOW! @RepKnott”
Troy Nehls represents Texas’s 22nd congressional district and has won several recent elections in his district, including victories over Sri Preston Kulkarni in 2020 with 51.5% of the vote, Jamie Jordan in 2022 with 62.2%, and Marquette Greene-Scott in 2024 with 62.1%.
Government shutdowns occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations legislation funding federal agencies and programs. During such periods, essential federal employees—including air traffic controllers and TSA officers—are often required to work without pay until new funding is approved.
