Emanuel Blasts Congressional Republicans Over Shutdown

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Mayor Emanuel says most Chicago City services will be untouched by the partial federal government shutdown, but he chastises Congressional Republicans for continuing the stalemate, reports WBBM Political Editor Craig Dellimore.

Mayor Emanuel, a former White House Chief of Staff, says he has talked with some Democratic Congressional leaders about the shutdown over healthcare reform. He hasn't talked with Republicans but does have a few choice words for them.

"They are being unreasonable and irresponsible and reckless," said Emanuel.

The Mayor says police, fire and other critical city services will be unaffected but if the shutdown continues , "At some point whether its Meals on Wheels to our most vulnerable seniors. That is a federally funded program that is administered locally. At a certain point, if this goes on longer, and I am not saying it will, but if it does it will have an impact.

Head Start, an early education program, also could be among those affected.