Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, a U.S. Representative from New Mexico, posted several messages on her X (formerly Twitter) account on September 29 and 30, 2025, criticizing the potential government shutdown and its effects on service members and Americans.
On September 29, Leger Fernández wrote: "If the Republicans shut down the government tomorrow night, our service members will have to work without pay. What a ridiculous idea. 17,900 service-members in New Mexico won’t be paid to protect our country or to keep our bases functioning. Trump needs to stop playing".
Later that evening, she invited followers to participate in a live discussion about the situation: "Happening now: We’re live answering all your questions about the Republican shutdown — tune in and join the conversation. Join here: https://t.co/xQjkMAmeYF https://t.co/X8Jno3nwqN".
In another post early on September 30, she commented further: "This government shutdown is attacks on women and every American."
Leger Fernández has represented New Mexico’s third congressional district since winning election in 2020. She was re-elected in subsequent cycles, defeating Alexis Martinez Johnson in both 2020 and 2022 by margins of approximately 58% to 41%. In the most recent general election of 2024, she defeated Sharon Clahchischilliage with roughly 41.8% of the vote compared to Clahchischilliage's 43.7%, reflecting competitive races throughout her tenure.
Government shutdowns occur when Congress fails to pass funding legislation for federal agencies before an established deadline. During such periods, many federal employees are furloughed or required to work without pay until funding is restored.
