A federal government shutdown looms as Democrats and Republicans convened with President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. The conversations reflected deep partisan divides even as both parties continued to wrestle with big funding questions. If an agreement is not worked out, the shutdown is scheduled to begin on Wednesday.
Unlike Trump, we can finally end the threat of mass firings of federal workers whenever the government shuts down by directly prohibiting the practice. Though public employees and healthcare workers on both the federal and state levels were concerned by his remarks, cardio-thoracic surgeon turned Governor, Dr. A shutdown would be 32 billion dollar hit to health care providers if ACA credits lapse.
Democrats are insistent that any new CR provide adequate funding and protection for high-priority initiatives. They are particularly interested in their members’ support for extending the enhanced Obamacare tax credits. At the same time, Republicans sought to move their own short-term measure to keep federal spending at today’s levels through late November.
Even with a 53-vote Senate majority, Republicans were lambasted by Democrats across the aisle. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer pointed out that the proposed Republican bill lacked Democratic input, stating, “It’s up to the Republicans whether they want to shut down or not.”
Conversations on the ground during the meeting exposed the chasm that still lies between the two factions. As recently as October 21, Hakeem Jeffries was saying that both sides were still very much at an impasse on the major sticking points.
“This is purely and simply hostage taking,” – John Thune
Trump made matters worse Trump escalated that drama Friday morning by abruptly canceling a scheduled meeting even with those top Democrats, including Jeffries and Schumer. Realistic demands over health care have been replaced by extreme threats to fund the government. Vice President JD Vance After meeting with Trump and Democratic Congressional leadership, hinted at a shutdown.
Vance spoke alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune on the day of Trump’s meeting with congressional leaders. The high stakes of the moment deepened as each side realized that the clock was ticking down to the last possible moment to avoid a shutdown.