SE Oakland News

Senator Aric Nesbitt, a Michigan state legislator, posted a series of tweets on October 8, 2025, criticizing U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters for their positions during an ongoing government shutdown. Nesbitt's comments focus on the potential impact of the shutdown on Michigan veterans and active duty service members.

In a tweet posted at 13:38 UTC, Nesbitt stated, "Nearly half a million Michigan veterans could have their VA services interrupted because @SenatorSlotkin and @SenGaryPeters are choosing to keep the government shutdown to protect healthcare for illegal immigrants."

Later the same day, at 13:50 UTC, he wrote, "Michigan's nearly 5,000 active duty service members are at risk of missing a paycheck because @SenatorSlotkin and @SenGaryPeters want to hold the government hostage to protect healthcare for illegals. Michigan deserves better than the Schumer Shutdown."

At 14:40 UTC, Nesbitt continued his criticism by posting, "Senators Slotkin and Peters don’t care how many Michiganders are hurt by their reckless shutdown as long as they can protect illegal immigrants. It’s time for them to do their jobs and put the people of Michigan FIRST. @RepLisaMcClain @RapidResponse47"

The tweets come amid a federal government shutdown, which can disrupt services for veterans and delay pay for active duty military personnel. Government shutdowns typically occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills or continuing resolutions to fund federal agencies. During such periods, non-essential services are suspended and federal employees, including military members, may not receive pay until funding is restored.

Nesbitt's remarks reference concerns that have been raised in previous shutdowns regarding the impact on veterans' benefits and military pay. The debate over funding for healthcare for undocumented immigrants has been a contentious issue in recent budget negotiations.