John Block, a House Representative from New Mexico, has attributed the responsibility for the longest government shutdown in U.S. history to the Democrats, stating that their actions are harming Americans. This statement was made on the social media platform X.
"Congratulations, the DEMOCRAT PARTY did that," said JOHN BLOCK, New Mexico State Representative for 51st District (R). "You have held the American people hostage for the longest amount of time in history. Are you proud of yourselves?"
According to The Guardian, the ongoing 2025 U.S. government shutdown became the longest in American history on November 4, surpassing the previous record of a 35-day shutdown during 2018-19. The impasse over spending and border security has stalled funding bills, resulting in halted federal pay, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, and research programs. Officials in New Mexico have warned of increasing food insecurity and shortfalls in emergency aid.
Reuters reports that the shutdown has disrupted federal food and health programs, putting Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) support for 6.7 million families at risk and furloughing 42,000 staff members from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In New Mexico alone, it is estimated by the governor’s office that 460,000 residents would lose SNAP benefits by November 1 without state intervention. To address this issue, the state approved $30 million in stopgap aid.
The Congressional Research Service notes that the previous record shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019 lasted 35 days and resulted in an $11 billion reduction in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with $3 billion lost permanently. The current closure is expected to exceed this economic toll while halting critical services nationwide.
The New Mexico Legislature reports that Rep. John Block is a Republican representing District 51 (Otero County) since January 2023. He serves as Ranking Member of the House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs Committee and has been an advocate for limited government and reduced spending while opposing expanded social programs during state debates.
