In the aftermath of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk’s tragic death, California Democratic Senator Adam Schiff quickly turned the national conversation toward partisan politics and the looming government shutdown. During a press conference, Schiff harshly criticized Republican lawmakers, accusing them of unlawfully rescinding funds and making drastic cuts to healthcare programs like Medicaid, the VA, and NIH.

He warned that millions could lose healthcare access and predicted up to a 75% spike in insurance premiums due to Republican policies. Schiff framed these proposed cuts as devastating to public health, emphasizing that they would result in hospital closures and the elimination of vital research and services. He portrayed these potential outcomes as a direct consequence of Republican budget priorities.

Schiff escalated his rhetoric by framing the budget standoff as a broader threat to democracy, claiming the country is on a “dangerous road to dictatorship.” He alleged that the administration is misusing federal agencies such as the Department of Justice and is coercing media outlets, law firms, and universities for political gain. According to Schiff, these abuses represent unprecedented attacks on American institutions.

He argued that Democrats should not approach the funding debate as business as usual, insisting that any deal must include restoration of healthcare funding and a halt to what he described as corruption and abuse of power. Schiff declared that his vote on any funding bill would depend on these conditions being met, presenting the standoff as a fight for the soul of the nation.

His remarks came just hours after the death of Charlie Kirk, whose alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, reportedly held strong political views and expressed disdain for Kirk. While the investigation is ongoing, critics argue that Schiff’s immediate political response was both insensitive and inflammatory given the circumstances, potentially deepening national divisions at an already tense moment.