Big news -- government “shutdown.” Of course, in the federal government, a shutdown isn’t really a shutdown; “essential” functions continue.

The President attempted to reassure us: Social Security checks will be delivered, air traffic controllers will continue working, and the border patrol remains on the job.

Nevertheless, reports are that the administration has instructed Immigrations & Custom Enforcement to suspend deportations (because of the shutdown). A curious contradiction, but are we surprised about this new example of the President’s selective enforcement record?

Disturbing news -- the National Park Service was ordered to close the World War II Memorial. This open-air plaza is normally open around-the-clock and requires minimal staffing. The White House ordered the installation of metal barricades and enforcement of the closure by NPS police. The Obama administration spends more money needlessly restricting access to this public site.

“Park” closures have extended to privately-operated facilities, run without federal funding, simply because they are leased federal land. Why? Maybe to create images on the nightly news blaming “those nasty Republicans?” Never mind the reality that the Republican-controlled House has passed several bills to fund the government, which the Democrat-controlled Senate has rejected.

The President threatens vetoes of these bills and offers, why should I negotiate? The President attempts to “not let a crisis go to waste,” defending Obamacare, the horrendous expansion of big government, at all costs.

On Tuesday, Oct. 15, at 6:15 p.m., Fountain Hills AZ Tea Party will welcome Congressman David Schweikert as our special guest. Get the latest update from someone fully immersed in the workings of the Congress. Please join us Tuesday, 10/15, at FHUSD Learning Center. Admission is free, but donations to cover expenses are much appreciated. Bring a friend and come to the tea party.

For more information, please visit www.fhteaparty.org.