WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews) – House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain on Wednesday sharply criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for blocking funding for the Department of Homeland Security, saying the monthlong standoff has left the nation vulnerable as potential terror attacks mount.

“It sickens me! I’m here to protect Americans, and I’m here to protect law-abiding citizens. And that’s what we’re going to vote on again,” McClain said.

“We’re going to stop playing politics. We’re going to put the American people first again,” she added.

McClain, R-Mich., spoke as Democrats have continued to withhold support for DHS funding legislation, even after President Donald Trump removed former Secretary Kristi Noem. Republicans argue the delay has hampered the department’s ability to respond to threats, pointing to recent incidents including potential attacks on synagogues, universities and public officials’ homes.a30078

The chairwoman closed by praising the president.

“And I will close by saying this. Thank you, President Trump, for doing what the Democrats refuse to do. And thank you for always putting Americans first,” McClain said.

The remarks come amid ongoing partisan tensions over homeland security appropriations. House Republicans have pushed to restore full funding, while top Democrats have conditioned their support on additional changes at the department.

McClain, who represents Michigan’s 9th Congressional District, has repeatedly highlighted the risks of the funding lapse on social media and in public statements, warning that politicizing DHS leaves Americans less secure.

No immediate vote was scheduled on the issue following her comments.