" During the Reagan years, government shut down eight different times under a Democrat Congress. The president and Congress worked together and got things straightened out. Under the Carter years, again a Democrat Congress, the government shut down five times. "
- Mitt Romney

The quote discusses the frequency of government shutdowns during specific presidencies when Congress was controlled by Democrats. According to Mitt Romney, there were eight government shutdowns under President Reagan and five under President Carter, each time occurring with a Democratic-controlled Congress.

On a deeper level, this statement highlights the political complexities involved in governance and the role of both executive and legislative branches in budget negotiations. It suggests that regardless of party control, compromises are often necessary to avoid shutdowns, which can have significant impacts on government operations and public services. The quote also reflects a broader narrative about bipartisanship and the potential for cooperation even during political disagreements.

Mitt Romney is an American politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and has been a candidate in Republican primaries for President of the United States. He frequently uses historical data to draw comparisons and make points relevant to contemporary political issues, often aiming to emphasize lessons learned from past administrations and legislative actions.