Progressives Disappointed Over Spending Bill

Progressive activists in Northeast Ohio say they’re disappointed with Senate Democrats’ agreement to pass a short-term spending bill in Congress earlier this week, ending the government shutdown.

Members of several local progressive groups said the deal should have included protections for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.

“It's really unfortunate that the dreamers are being caught up in this game of political football,” said Deb Kline, the director of Cleveland Jobs with Justice.

Jose Mendez is a recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program and the Cleveland Director of DreamActivist Ohio.

Mendez said he believes Democrats voted in support of the spending bill to bolster their chances in the upcoming midterm elections.

“Was this a smart move for them? I don’t think playing with my life is a smart move,” Mendez said.

Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown voted to reopen the government Monday. In a press release, Brown said he's confident Congress is "very close to reaching a long-term compromise," and should put forward a bipartisan solution for DACA.

The spending bill is set to expire Feb. 8.