Kirk, a prominent conservative commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University earlier this week, shocking political circles across the country. While tributes poured in from allies and opponents alike, Schiff pivoted quickly in public remarks to discuss partisan gridlock, government funding, and what he called a looming “dangerous road to dictatorship.”

Speaking on Thursday, Schiff tied the ongoing budget battles in Congress to wider concerns about healthcare and political freedoms, arguing that Republican-backed proposals could lead to devastating consequences for Americans.

“In 19 days, the government funding runs out, which means if there is not an agreement between Democrats and Republicans on a spending bill, the government will shut down,” Schiff said. “Now, maybe that’s what the Republicans want. They’re withholding in violation of law, rescinding funds in an unlawful way—money that was already agreed upon. Maybe they just want to shut the whole thing down.”