Today, Common Cause urged Congress to stand firm against the influence of Elon Musk, an unelected billionaire promoting false narratives on social media, and pass the agreed-upon federal funding bill before the midnight deadline. Failure to enact the already negotiated, bipartisan measure would trigger a devastating government shutdown, undermining critical public services and the livelihoods of millions of American families. 

Earlier this week, lawmakers reached a bipartisan agreement to fund the government through next March, including essential disaster relief programs. However, billionaire Elon Musk’s recent barrage of over 100 misleading social media posts derailed this agreement. Common Cause calls on our elected officials to reject Elon Musk’s intervention and uphold the deal that prioritizes the well-being of all Americans. 

“Elon Musk is not a member of Congress and should not have the power to shut down our government. Republicans must reject his demands and pass the previously agreed upon bi-partisan government funding package,” said Virginia Kase Solomón, Common Cause President. “Without funding, we face severe disruptions—from delayed air travel and healthcare services to  our military members going without pay and federal employees being furloughed just before the holidays. Congress must stand by its original commitment to keep our nation running.” 

Common Cause urges Congress to pass the bipartisan funding bill and preserve the stability and security of our nation’s government.  

In a statement, Common Cause President Virginia Kase Solomón said allowing the government to shut down would be a preview of what’s to come. 

“The actions of the incoming Trump Administration are a disturbing preview of what the American people can expect for the next four years – one where unelected billionaires can buy access to the most powerful levels of government, undermine our checks and balances, and call the shots on crucial government spending decisions. The American people should not have to question if Donald Trump will be leading our country come January 20th or if he is just a puppet for Elon Musk. This is not what the people voted for- Congress must not allow it.