Carter Calls for Negotiations to End Government Shutdown
Louisiana’s 2nd District Congressman Troy Carter says lawmakers must return to the negotiating table to end the federal government shutdown and prevent federal workers from bearing the consequences of political disagreements.
During a recent interview, Carter said government shutdowns never solve budget disputes and instead hurt workers who rely on steady paychecks.
According to Carter, essential federal employees such as Transportation Security Administration workers still report to work but receive no pay during a shutdown.
“They still have bills to pay,” Carter said. “Mortgages, rent, car notes, insurance. But their paycheck doesn’t come.”
Carter said Congress must continue negotiations until lawmakers reach a budget agreement. He also stressed that political differences should never justify shutting down government operations.
Concerns About War Powers and Military Action
Carter also raised concerns about recent U.S. military actions involving Iran and the constitutional authority required to launch such operations.
He argued the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to formally declare war, while the president has limited authority to respond quickly if the country faces an immediate attack.
“When you bomb another country without congressional authorization, that’s war,” Carter said.
He emphasized that decisions involving military force should involve careful consideration because they put American service members in harm’s way.
Carter said the issue is not partisan but constitutional.
“This isn’t about Republicans or Democrats,” he said. “This is about following the rule of law.”
Carter Urges Action to Help Americans in the Middle East
Carter also called on the U.S. State Department to assist Americans currently in the Middle East who want to return home due to escalating tensions in the region.
The congressman said his office received calls from Louisiana residents living overseas who reported hearing explosions nearby but struggled to get guidance from government agencies.
Carter contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio and urged federal officials to create clearer evacuation plans.
He said the government should offer guidance for Americans who choose to remain overseas and arrange transportation for those who want to leave.
“If airports close and flights cancel, charter planes if necessary,” Carter said. “We have to protect our citizens.”
Community Town Hall Draws Large Crowd
Carter also highlighted a recent community town hall in St. John the Baptist Parish that connected residents with federal and state agencies.
The event included assistance with passports, tax filing, health screenings, veterans services, and small business support.
Carter said hundreds of residents attended throughout the day and participated in a public question-and-answer session during the evening town hall.
He said the goal is simple: bring government services directly to the people who need them.