Republican Bashes Democrats And His Own Party

Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., made a pointed remark on Newsmax Saturday, calling attention to the recent defection of several Republican Senators who voted with Democrats on critical Cabinet appointments. According to Burlison, this episode is a clear indication that the so-called “swamp” in Washington is not only real but is also bipartisan.

Burlison’s comments came after President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, narrowly secured confirmation late Friday. Hegseth’s appointment was almost derailed by three Republican Senators—Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine, and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky—who broke ranks with their party and voted against the nomination. Their decision to side with Democrats left Vice President J.D. Vance to cast the tie-breaking vote that ultimately allowed Hegseth to take the position.

While the nomination fight was tight, Burlison expressed optimism about the outcome, emphasizing that Hegseth is the right choice for the role. “It’s a huge victory for the American people,” Burlison said. “Pete is a combat veteran with real-world experience, and his leadership is exactly what the Pentagon needs. He isn’t part of the military elite; he understands the struggles and perspectives of the troops. This is a win for all of us, and President Trump’s influence is showing—he’s able to get things done.”

However, Burlison also highlighted a crucial point about the Republican Party’s current situation in Congress. Despite the rhetoric about having a majority, he pointed out that Republicans do not truly have the power they need to push through conservative priorities. “When we have senators like Murkowski, Collins, and McConnell voting with Democrats, it’s a stark reminder of the challenges we face,” he added. “The swamp is real, and it’s bipartisan.”

In his remarks, Burlison made it clear that conservatives must stay vigilant and united, as the fight to drain the swamp is far from over.