News

Collins, King Vote for Failed Plan to Block Govt Shutdown

Collins, King Vote for Failed Plan to Block Govt Shutdown

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


Both Maine U.S. Senators voted in favor of a temporary spending plan on Tuesday, which would have kept the federal government running.

Republican Susan Collins and Independent Angus King voted for the GOP-backed plan – also known as a “continuing resolution – which would have kept the government functioning for seven weeks.

The measure failed to pass, which has sent the government into a partial shutdown that will affect the delivery of federal services to the public.

Senator King notably broke with Democrats, whom he typically sides with, to back the spending plan.

King called his action a “vote of conscience” to oppose the Trump administration’s threat to permanently fire federal employees if the shutdown takes place.

“The irony – the paradox is – by shutting the government, we’re actually giving Donald Trump more power,” said King. “And that was why I voted yes. I did not want to hand Donald Trump and Russell Vought and Stephen Miller additional power to decimate the federal government, to decimate the programs that are so important to so many people.”

The temporary spending plan failed by a 55-45 vote, with Democrats Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and John Fetterman of Pennsylvania joining King to vote Yes.

Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky was the Republican to vote against the plan. The measure needed a reach a 60 vote threshold to pass.

Latest Headlines

23 hours ago in Entertainment

Netflix to acquire Warner Bros. studio and streaming business for $72 billion

Netflix has struck a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, the legacy Hollywood giant behind "Harry Potter" and "Friends," to buy its studio and streaming business for $72 billion.

2 days ago in Lifestyle, Trending

Parents under pressure offer creative tips for moving Santa’s spy Elf on the Shelf

Elf on the Shelf, who turns 20 this year, has created lots of family memories, laughter and the occasional parental panic over where to move the elf next.

2 days ago in Lifestyle

Don’t forget pets when preparing for winter’s cold. Here’s what experts recommend

As wintry weather settles in, it brings risks for pets as well as people. Pet owners can take steps to keep their animals warm and safe, including learning about the dangers of extreme temperatures, buying weather-resistant accessories, and stocking up on extra supplies in case of power outages or storms.

2 days ago in Entertainment

The PlayStation turns 30: Looking back at the console that gave us Lara Croft and ‘The Last of Us’

From big-budget Hollywood fare like "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" starring Angelina Jolie, to Juice WRLD's video for "Hear Me Calling" to "The Last of Us" on HBO Max, the PlayStation experience has leapt far past the console.

2 days ago in Entertainment

Doctor who sold ketamine to ‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry gets 2 1/2 years in prison

A doctor who pleaded guilty to selling ketamine to Matthew Perry was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison on Wednesday at an emotional hearing over the "Friends" star's overdose death.