Senators John Fetterman, a Democrat, and Dave McCormick, a Republican, stood united in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, urging an end to the government shutdown. They highlighted the escalating challenges faced by families, workers, and federal employees in Pennsylvania due to this impasse.

In a joint video posted to social media, Pennsylvania’s two U.S. senators urged colleagues in both parties to prioritize reopening the federal government as the shutdown entered its 23rd day. The message marks a rare moment of bipartisan unity between Fetterman, a Democrat known for breaking with his party on several recent votes, and McCormick, a first-term Republican elected in 2024.

“We’re here in Washington, D.C., and the government is at a standstill,” Fetterman commented in a video. “But representing Pennsylvania in the U.S. Senate, despite our differing party affiliations, we both recognize the necessity of reopening the government.”

McCormick emphasized the detrimental effects the shutdown is causing in Pennsylvania, pointing out its impact on air traffic controllers, border patrol agents, and the two million residents relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). “It’s been 23 days and 12 votes,” he noted. “Senator Fetterman and I are aligned in our commitment to restarting the government. This is a fundamental duty, irrespective of which party holds the majority.”

Fetterman supported this view, stressing the priority of national over party interests. “Our votes are for the country above party lines,” he said. “We have two million Pennsylvanians depending on SNAP, facing the threat of losing this essential support. We need to reopen the government and engage in meaningful dialogue about extending tax credits. Though our parties differ, we’re united for Pennsylvania and our nation.”

McCormick concluded with a firm statement, “Pennsylvanians expect it. Pennsylvanians deserve it.”