U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) called on Senate Democrats to fund the Department of Homeland Security in a speech delivered on the Senate floor on March 26. Cassidy said the ongoing shutdown is affecting agencies such as Customs and Border Protection, the Coast Guard, FEMA, and TSA.
The senator said that delays caused by the shutdown are impacting both federal workers and ordinary Americans. “At some point, [Senate Democrats] have to be willing to make an agreement,” Cassidy said. He added, “You should consider the pain that you are exacting upon fellow Americans, upon people who are not getting paid for six weeks even though they have bills to pay.” Cassidy also addressed frustration among Republicans about what he described as shifting demands from Senate Democrats regarding DHS funding.
During his remarks, Cassidy highlighted disruptions at airports and hardships faced by TSA staff who have had to seek other work due to missed paychecks. He pointed out that call-outs from TSA staff exceeded 40 percent over a recent weekend because employees were driving for ride-share companies instead of working at airports. The senator mentioned specific impacts in New Orleans and warned about potential consequences if FEMA is unable to respond during hurricane season due to lack of funding.
Cassidy serves as chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and is also a member of several other committees including Finance; Energy and Natural Resources; and Veterans Affairs according to his official website. He has focused on reducing health care costs and improving mental health systems according to his official website. In addition, he co-founded the Greater Baton Rouge Community Clinic which provides free health services for those without insurance according to his official website.
Cassidy earned both undergraduate and medical degrees from Louisiana State University according to his official website, raised three children with his wife—a retired breast cancer surgeon—and enjoys time with their grandchild according to his official website.
In closing his speech on the Senate floor, Cassidy urged lawmakers: “Protect our country and pay our people. Fund DHS.”
