Rep. John Rose, R-Tenn., said Monday on Newsmax's "Wake Up America" that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., should step aside, arguing Republican leadership has failed to deliver on ending the Department of Homeland Security shutdown.
Rose reaffirmed his earlier remarks, saying it's time for new leadership in the Senate to "carry the flag" and meet the expectations of voters.
"In fact, I do," he said when asked if he stands by his call, adding that recent Senate actions were "really reprehensible."
Rose criticized senators for leaving Washington ahead of a key funding deadline last week, despite knowing the consequences for border security and federal workers.
"It was very clear what they needed to get done," he said, pointing to funding for ICE and Border Patrol and ensuring TSA agents were paid.
"That's what the American people want," Rose said, adding that Thune "capitulated."
But the responsibility extends beyond the GOP leader, he said, arguing that Senate Republicans failed to use available tools to stop what he called a flawed bill.
"All of the Republican senators joined him in that," Rose said.
He emphasized that even one senator could have prevented the measure from advancing in the early hours Friday.
"Any one senator could have stayed," Rose said. "Any one senator could have objected and not let this horrendous bill pass."
The congressman framed the situation as a clear breakdown in leadership, saying it shows a failure to align with the priorities of voters and the White House.
"It is really … a failure to understand what the American people want," Rose said.
He also highlighted that the House has already passed a Homeland Security funding bill, but it remains stalled amid the senators' absence.
Still, Rose argued there is an immediate opportunity for passage if Senate Republicans choose to act.
"This morning at 10:30 a.m. the Senate will convene," he said, noting a single Republican could bring up the House-passed continuing resolution.
If no senator objects, the measure could pass quickly and fund the government for 60 days, Rose explained.
That, he said, would allow time for Thune to return, "decide to do his job," and lead Republicans to a resolution.
GET TODAY NEWSMAX+:
NEWSMAX is the fastest-growing cable news channel in America with more than 30 million people watching!
Reuters Institute reports NEWSMAX is one of the top news brands in the U.S.
You need to watch NEWSMAX today.
Get it with great shows from Rob Schmitt, Greta Van Susteren, Greg Kelly, Carl Higbie, Rob Finnerty – and many more!
Find the NEWSMAX channel on your cable system – Go Here Now
BEST OFFER:
Sign up for NEWSMAX+ and get NEWSMAX, our streaming channel NEWSMAX2 and our military channel World at War.
Find hundreds of shows, movies and specials.
Even get Jon Voight’s special series and President Trump’s comedy programs and much more!
Watch NEWSMAX+ on your smartphone or home TV app.
Watch NEWSMAX anytime, anywhere!
Start your FREE trial now: NewsmaxPlus.com
Nicole Weatherholtz ✉
Nicole Weatherholtz, a Newsmax general assignment reporter covers news, politics, and culture. She is a National Newspaper Association award-winning journalist.
© 2026 Newsmax. All rights reserved.