Top Republican Spotted 'Living It Up' on Beach During Shutdown

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House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the second-highest ranking Republican in the House, was spotted vacationing in Orange Beach, Alabama while the government shutdown continues. Photos obtained by TMZ show Scalise walking out of a local seafood market with a security detail and driver, with the outlet describing the MAGA lawmaker as 'living it up on the Floribama shore' during what it characterized as a two-week break from Washington, D.C.

Why it matters

The government shutdown has dragged on for weeks, with lawmakers failing to reach a deal to fully fund federal agencies. Scalise's beach vacation during this time has drawn criticism, as many Americans are feeling the effects of the shutdown through delayed government services and lost wages.

The details

According to the report, Scalise was photographed on Friday near Orange Beach, Alabama, where he was seen leaving a local seafood market with a bag of food and accompanied by a two-person security detail and a driver. The outlet described the Republican leader as 'living it up' during the congressional recess, which it said has lasted around two weeks.

• The government shutdown has been ongoing for several weeks.
• Scalise was spotted vacationing in Alabama on Friday, April 3, 2026.