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Washington, D.C. – Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) categorically denied having any responsibility for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's decision to reject a stopgap funding measure introduced by Republicans, which led to the federal government shutdown.

During an interview with MSNBC, the New York congressman dismissed reports that she was a key figure in lobbying Schumer to block the Republican initiative. "It's not true that I influenced that decision. Senator Schumer is acting on his own political and leadership assessments," Ocasio-Cortez clarified.

The lawmaker emphasized that the real debate is not centered on internal disputes within the Democratic Party, but on the Republican refusal to include funding for social and healthcare programs for illegal immigrants, which, she said, are essential for millions of families. "What's at stake is the well-being of our people, not Washington's political games," he added.

The government shutdown, which began after the budget deadline, has kept thousands of federal employees on edge and created a new climate of polarization in Congress. While Republicans blame Democrats for refusing to accept a provisional agreement, progressive leaders insist there should be no compromise on issues such as protecting assistance programs for illegal immigrants and providing health coverage for vulnerable groups.

Political analysts agree that the exchange of accusations reflects the deep divisions on Capitol Hill and anticipate difficult negotiations in the coming days to reach an agreement that will allow the government to reopen. Meanwhile, citizens support Republicans' defense of the use of their tax dollars.