Republican presidential hopefuls are cheering for extreme MAGA Republicans in Congress to shut down the federal government – tanking the economy and undermining our national security over a laundry list of partisan proposals  – which would have devastating consequences for America’s hardworking families. 

Trump isn’t even pretending like he’s above using MAGA House Republicans’ power to advance his own political agenda – even if it means shutting down the government. 

Welker: “Do you think Republican hardliners should abandon their threat to shut down the government over their spending priorities now that there is this impeachment inquiry?

Trump: No I think if they don’t get a fair deal – we have to save our country. We’re $35 trillion in debt. We have to save our country.

Welker: You would shut down the government? You’d support that?

Trump: I’d shut down the government if they can’t make an appropriate deal. Absolutely.”

DeSantis, a House Freedom Caucus co-founder, told far-right extreme MAGA Republicans to “keep fighting” even if their petty political games lead to a government shutdown.

Politico: “The Florida governor spent about 30 minutes on the phone Wednesday with conservative Reps. Chip Roy of Texas, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Bob Good of Virginia — leaders of the cadre that is pushing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to embrace a shutdown if Democrats won’t agree to hard-right policy demands. DeSantis’ message, according to a person familiar with the call: ‘I got your back. Keep fighting.’”

Scott had no shame in admitting he’d choose politics over avoiding a government shutdown. 

Radio Iowa: “Republican presidential candidate Tim Scott — who represents South Carolina in the U.S. Senate — says he’s ready to draw a line in the sand on federal spending, even if it leads to a government shutdown. Scott voted against this spring’s budget deal that set a two-year framework for government spending.”

Pence urged House conservatives to hold the line on their demands despite the looming threat of a government shutdown. 

Tapper: “Do you think that the House Freedom Caucus should hold the line and keep pushing McCarthy even if it means a government shutdown? Or do you think a shutdown would be a mistake?

Pence: I think House conservatives are the last line of defense for taxpayers in Washington, D.C. and I strongly support their effort to stand firm and demand the kind of budget cuts necessary to make a small down payment on fiscal responsibility and reform.”