Jacky Rosen: Fighting Back Against Nuclear Threats and Shutdowns

Senator Jacky Rosen Takes a Firm Stand on Critical Issues Facing Nevadans

Amidst the backdrop of the nation's longest government shutdown and escalating national security concerns, Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen has emerged as a vocal and formidable advocate for her constituents. Setting aside her typically moderate demeanor, the senator has delivered sharp, direct rebukes to the Trump administration's policies, particularly regarding the potential resumption of nuclear weapons testing and the detrimental impacts of the ongoing federal shutdown on vulnerable families.

Confronting the Nuclear Testing Threat

In late October 2025, President Donald Trump announced via Truth Social his intention to resume U.S. nuclear weapons testing after a 33-year hiatus, citing the need to "test our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis" as Russia and China allegedly do. This announcement sent shockwaves through Nevada, a state historically integral to the nation's nuclear testing program, most notably at the Nevada National Security Site.

During a November 4th interview with Nevada press, Senator Rosen unequivocally condemned the proposal. "I don't have to tell any of you just how dangerous and irresponsible a decision like that is for our state of Nevada," Rosen stated. "There's absolutely zero evidence that explosive testing is needed, or is necessary."

Rosen highlighted the profound dangers of such testing, pointing to the potential environmental and health consequences for communities near the test site. While administration officials, including Energy Secretary Christopher Wright, attempted to downplay the risks by suggesting testing would focus on "non-nuclear components," Rosen remained unimpressed, demanding direct clarification and accountability from President Trump himself.

The Human Cost of the Government Shutdown

While the nuclear threat garnered headlines, Rosen has been equally focused on the immediate, devastating effects of the prolonged government shutdown on Nevada families. With nearly 95,000 Nevadans relying on Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies for health insurance and countless others depending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food, the shutdown has created a crisis.

"Why aren't we asking the Republicans, 'Where's their compassion when it comes to people's health care? Why aren't they listening to their constituents? Why aren't they visiting their food banks?'" Rosen challenged during a press conference, reframing the narrative to hold the majority party accountable.

The senator has been a persistent voice in Washington urging swift action to restore benefits and end the shutdown, emphasizing its disproportionate impact on both urban and rural communities across Nevada.

A Fiery Exchange on the Senate Floor

Rosen's frustration boiled over during a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing on November 6th, 2025. When Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) attempted to blame Democrats for the shutdown and mock Rosen as out of touch, she countered with blistering remarks that resonated nationally.

"This is a Republican shutdown, my friend," Rosen retorted. "You are in control of the White House. You are in control of the House, and you are in control of the Senate. And if you went home to a food bank instead of going to Mar-a-Lago to eat at a gold-plated dinner while people are starving, you might see and hear your constituents, sir. You are blind to the suffering of your people."

"This is a Republican shutdown, my friend. You are in control of the White House. You are in control of the House, and you are in control of the Senate. And if you went home to a food bank instead of going to Mar-a-Lago to eat at a gold-plated dinner while people are starving, you might see and hear your constituents, sir. You are blind to the suffering of your people."

Senator Jacky Rosen, November 6, 2025

The Fight Continues

Despite the Trump administration's recent appeal of a judge's order to restore full November SNAP benefits, the underlying struggles remain acute. Rosen's recent actions underscore a significant shift in her public approach, demonstrating a willingness to employ more aggressive tactics to protect Nevadans and challenge policies she deems reckless or harmful.

As the shutdown drags on and nuclear rhetoric persists, Senator Jacky Rosen has made it clear: she is prepared to "punch when she needs to" in defense of her state and its most vulnerable residents. The nation watches to see if her firm stance will translate into meaningful legislative action or influence in the face of continued administration challenges.