WASHINGTON — In a press release, Congressman Michael Baumgartner expressed relief Tuesday following the passage of a continuing resolution that ended the government shutdown.

The Eastern Washington Republican criticized the shutdown as unnecessary political maneuvering that harmed working families.

"The Democrats' decision to shut down the government was a monumental waste of time that hurt a lot of people," Baumgartner said. "I'm relieved that this pointless DC drama is finally over, and families across Eastern Washington can breathe a sigh of relief."

He argued lawmakers should have focused on solutions rather than "political games that threatened paychecks, benefits for the most needy, and the livelihoods of hardworking Americans."

Despite his criticism, Baumgartner thanked Democrat

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