As the partial government shutdown stretches into its second week, Republican leaders are pointing blame squarely at Senate Democrats for refusing to pass a continuing resolution that excludes funding for healthcare benefits for illegal aliens.

Among those taking aim at the Democratic bloc is Georgia Congressman Mike Collins, who delivered a symbolic “pink slip” to the Atlanta office of Sen. Jon Ossoff on Monday.

Collins’ move came as the shutdown entered its 13th day, with negotiations in Washington remaining at a standstill.

Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

In a statement emailed to supporters, Collins accused Ossoff and other Democrats of “abandoning the people of Georgia” by siding with what he described as the far-left priorities of states like California and New York.

“It’s been 13 days since Jon Ossoff abandoned the people of Georgia to vote with California and New York to shut down the government because he’s fighting to give healthcare to illegal aliens,” Collins said.

“Meanwhile, federal aid for farmers is blocked, our military was at risk of missing a paycheck until President Trump stepped in, and our economy is saddled with uncertainty. We the people have had enough. It’s time for Georgians to have a U.S. Senator that stands for our values, not the California Crazies or New York Nutjobs.”

I just made a special delivery to Schumer’s errand boy, Jon Ossoff. pic.twitter.com/2oCbJ8myaP

— Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) October 13, 2025

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

Ossoff, a first-term Democratic senator elected in 2021, faces reelection in 2026 and has been a central target of Republicans critical of the Democratic strategy during the shutdown.

The GOP argues that Democrats have deliberately delayed passing a short-term funding bill to secure additional benefits for individuals residing in the country illegally.

Collins’ symbolic “pink slip” delivery to Ossoff’s district office was intended to represent what he believes should happen at the ballot box.

The congressman, known for his lighthearted and meme-driven approach to politics, previously told The Hill that “a little bit of levity can help ease the tensions in a lot of ways,” referring to his habit of posting political jokes on social media.

His X account’s pinned post humorously edits his congressional title to describe himself as a “memer,” rather than a “member,” of Congress.

pic.twitter.com/BpeD1i1tB7

— Rep. Mike Collins (@RepMikeCollins) October 19, 2023

Beyond his online persona, Collins has built a reputation for legislative persistence.

He worked across party lines earlier this year to help advance the Laken Riley Act, which strengthened enforcement against criminal illegal aliens following the murder of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley.

The bill drew bipartisan attention in Congress and underscored Collins’ focus on border and public safety issues—topics that have also featured prominently in his critique of Ossoff and Senate Democrats.

Collins is currently a top contender in the 2026 Republican primary race to challenge Ossoff for his Senate seat.

His campaign has quickly gained momentum, raising $1.9 million in just eight weeks, according to recent filings.

Early polling has shown Collins ahead of other potential GOP candidates, including Rep. Buddy Carter and former football coach Derek Dooley, who has drawn the backing of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp.

With endorsements from conservative leaders across Georgia’s 159 counties, Collins has positioned himself as a grassroots candidate with a statewide network of supporters.

His campaign emphasizes fiscal responsibility, border enforcement, and veteran support—issues that have resonated with conservative voters frustrated by the ongoing shutdown and what they view as Democratic obstruction in Congress.

As of this week, there is no agreement in sight to end the shutdown, which has delayed federal paychecks and stalled assistance programs across the country.

Republicans continue to push for a “clean” continuing resolution that keeps the government funded without adding new benefits for illegal aliens, while Democrats maintain that such measures should be included.

For now, Collins’ pink slip delivery marks one of the most visible political statements of the shutdown, symbolizing growing conservative frustration with Senate Democrats and setting the tone for what is expected to be one of Georgia’s most closely watched political battles in 2026.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Objectivist. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.