U.S. Senator Pat Roberts Tuesday issued the following statement regarding the government shutdown:

“No one wants a government shutdown,” Roberts said. “In the past 72 hours, Republicans have offered up three different solutions to give the American people what they want -- a government that works for the people and protection from the health care law that is hurting patients and the economy.

“The Senate Democrats have not considered a single one of these solutions.

“I voted to keep the government open every single time. Nevertheless, Harry Reid and the Democrat leadership were unwilling to even consider these proposals and now will not work with us on a solution.

“This unfortunate event is not about a government shutdown, this is about protecting Kansans and Americans from the disastrous health care law that is damaging our economy, raising our taxes, and costing people their jobs.

“As predicted, the Obamacare exchanges opened today with massive problems. Despite multiple delays and waivers for unions, corporations and businesses, Obamacare is still being forced on the American people. I am deeply disappointed my colleagues across the aisle will not consider solutions that acknowledge the widespread concerns expressed by the American people with Obamacare.

“We cannot let this stalemate stand. I will continue to work toward a solution. I urge my Democrat colleagues to put their constituents first and stop the march to socialized medicine and get the American government back up and running.”