The Democrats’ reckless government shutdown has put a staggering $18 billion in critical infrastructure projects in New York City on pause.

This is not just a political game; it’s a blatant disregard for the needs of the American people. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought confirmed that vital projects like the Hudson Tunnel and the Second Avenue Subway are sidelined indefinitely. Why? To halt funding tied to unconstitutional diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates.

Moreover, the Department of Transportation (USDOT) is stepping up to ensure that race- and sex-based contracting requirements won’t dictate how taxpayer dollars are spent. Secretary Duffy made it abundantly clear: “Subsidizing infrastructure contracts based on discriminatory principles is unconstitutional and a waste of taxpayer resources.”

Thanks to the incompetence of Democrats like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, this necessary review to safeguard civil rights is being delayed. The USDOT is backlogged and unable to conduct a proper investigation into these massive projects, which are crucial for New York and the nation.

Without a budget, we are seeing the furlough of essential civil rights staff responsible for this review, directly impacting project reimbursements—especially the crucial $300 million needed for the Second Avenue Subway.

The Democrats’ government shutdown is not just a political maneuver; it’s punishing the American public. This is another example of how radical leftist policies are holding our infrastructure hostage while they try to push their partisan agenda, which prioritizes illegal immigrants over hardworking Americans.

The American people demand accountability, efficiency, and respect for the rule of law. It’s time to put an end to this reckless obstruction and get these critical infrastructure projects back on track.