Senator Lankford Talks Government Shutdown, Border Security, and Tariffs on Squawk Box

Senator James Lankford recently joined CNBC’s Squawk Box to discuss key political and economic issues, including the looming government shutdown, tax policy, and border security. The discussion provided insight into the ongoing debate in Washington regarding federal funding and bipartisan cooperation.

Government Shutdown: The “Schumer Shutdown” Debate

During the conversation, Senator Lankford pointed out that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer himself had referenced a potential government shutdown as a tool to push back against Trump-era policies. Lankford stressed that Republicans have been advocating for maintaining government funding at current levels to avoid unnecessary disruption.

“It is not good for federal workers right now. They’re going through a lot already,” Lankford said, emphasizing that a shutdown would only add to the uncertainty. He argued that Democrats are using the threat of a shutdown as leverage, though he expressed optimism that some moderate Democrats might ultimately support keeping the government open.

Lankford also explained that if Democrats refrain from filibustering, Republicans have the votes necessary to pass a funding resolution with a simple majority. He reiterated his long-standing stance that government shutdowns should be eliminated as a political tactic.

Border Security: A Dramatic Shift Under Trump

Addressing border security, Lankford highlighted the stark contrast between immigration enforcement under the Biden and Trump administrations. He pointed out that illegal crossings had significantly decreased from around 12,000 per day to fewer than 200.

“The border is closed right now,” he stated, adding that his previous bipartisan efforts to secure the border were intended to address what he saw as a lack of urgency from the Biden administration at the time. Lankford warned, however, that a million people who entered illegally in the past year remain in the country, posing potential security concerns.

Tax Policy and Tariffs: Looking for Long-Term Solutions

The conversation also touched on tax policy, with Lankford reaffirming Republican priorities of maintaining tax cuts for individuals and small businesses, preserving corporate tax rates, and addressing deductions for depreciation and research and development. He noted that President Trump has advocated for tax exemptions on tips and overtime pay, which remain under discussion.

Regarding tariffs, Lankford acknowledged that trade policy remains a contentious issue but expressed confidence in long-term benefits. He described the tariff strategy as an effort to curb fentanyl trafficking and counter foreign nations imposing reciprocal tariffs on American goods.

“In the short term, it’s a lot of churn,” he admitted, but added that a strategic approach to tariffs could yield economic benefits over time.

A Call for Stability in Washington

Throughout the discussion, Lankford emphasized the need for bipartisan solutions to prevent government shutdowns, ensure transparency in federal spending, and maintain stability in border security and economic policy.

As debates in Congress continue, his remarks signal a push for compromise while reinforcing key Republican positions on fiscal responsibility and national security.