Top Democratic and Republican leaders in the US Congress remain at a standstill regarding the partial government shutdown, with negotiations showing little sign of progress ahead of crucial votes on Monday. The key sticking point continues to be healthcare policy, with Democrats pushing to protect health insurance subsidies for low-income individuals and reverse cuts to Medicaid, while Republicans maintain that these measures are fiscally unsustainable.
In separate televised interviews, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and his Republican counterpart, Speaker Mike Johnson, traded accusations, each blaming the other party for the ongoing deadlock, now in its fifth day. Jeffries criticized Republicans for what he called “lying” about Democrats’ intentions, suggesting they are seeking political cover amidst public disapproval. Conversely, Johnson accused Democrats of being unserious and negotiating in bad faith.
The Senate is scheduled to reconvene, aiming to pass funding resolutions, but faces significant hurdles. Republicans hold a slim majority, but securing the 60 votes needed for passage in the 100-seat Senate requires bipartisan support, which is currently lacking. House Democrats are also planning to meet to discuss the situation. Meanwhile, Speaker Johnson has extended the House’s recess, meaning the lower chamber will not be present to vote on any potential Senate-amended funding bills.
Johnson defended the Republican stance by noting that the healthcare tax credits in question do not expire until the end of the year, suggesting there is ample time to resolve the issue. He also voiced concerns that the Democratic proposal would introduce excessive spending into a short-term measure and argued that current healthcare policies disproportionately benefit “illegal aliens and able-bodied young men without dependents” through Medicaid. These claims have been refuted by Democrats and BBC Verify, which states that undocumented immigrants are not eligible for the programs Democrats are supporting.
Jeffries emphasized the critical impact of the expiring credits on millions of Americans, warning of significantly increased premiums and deductibles if Republicans refuse to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits. He criticized President Trump’s role in the shutdown and his public statements targeting Democrats, urging for “serious leadership” instead of what he described as “outrageous behavior.” Jeffries asserted that Democrats are committed to finding bipartisan common ground to reopen the government and pass spending bills that address the needs of the American people, but stressed the necessity of resolving the “Republican health care crisis.”
Recent polling data indicates that the public largely disapproves of both parties’ handling of the shutdown. A significant majority of Americans (80%) expressed concern about the economic impact of the shutdown. Public opinion is divided on which party is more to blame, with a notable portion believing both are equally responsible. The consequences of the shutdown are beginning to be felt, with institutions like the National Gallery of Art forced to close due to funding shortages.