Williamsville, N.Y. (WBEN) - Should a federal government shutdown occur just after midnight on Wednesday, Oct. 1, Congressman Nick Langworthy (R, NY-23) knows who to blame.
In Langworthy's opinion, the possible shutdown is the result of a "temper tantrum" by U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, who also serves as the Senate Majority Leader.
"He has the power to stop this," Langworthy said during a press event on Tuesday.
Langworthy says he and his fellow members of Congress passed, back on Sept. 19, their support of the federal spending package that would help finance government employees, programs and activities through Nov. 21.
A companion bill in the Democrat-controlled Senate has not yet been approved, and will sunset at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, causing a possible federal shutdown of services, programs and possible layoffs.
"To do so would be a blow to our economy," Langworthy said.
At issue is less than programs and services, and more so an attack of President Donald Trump, Langworthy said. Langworthy is an ardent Trump supporter.
"This is an attack, but [the Democrats in the Senate] are using Americans as their pawns," Langworthy said.
A previous threat of a government shutdown in March was averted by a compromise package crafted at the 11th hour.
Langworthy doesn't think that will happen again, and the shutdown is a very real possibility.
"I won't take that bet," Langworthy said.
Schumer's office did not offer a reply to Langworthy's claims on Tuesday.