The ongoing government shutdown has entered its fifth day, with no signs of resolution as Democrats push to overturn spending cuts made during the Trump administration and restore subsidies for Obamacare.
The Senate has unsuccessfully attempted to pass four different resolution bills aimed at keeping the federal government running until November 21, which would have granted lawmakers more time to reach an agreement.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) appeared on a Sunday morning news show, labeling the situation as a “Schumer Shutdown,” pointing fingers at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) for instigating the deadlock.
Thune stated, “Chuck Schumer has acted at the behest of far-left groups. It’s time for Democrats to recognize the need for this short-term, bipartisan solution that could allow us to progress with the appropriations process.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) echoed these sentiments, criticizing Schumer and the Democrats for stalling the process. He argued that instead of agreeing to a temporary funding measure, they are demanding funding for healthcare reforms first.
“We are open to negotiations,” Johnson explained, asserting that issues surrounding health insurance tax credits are complex and will take time, especially as Republicans work to eliminate fraud and waste in the healthcare system.
Moreover, Johnson raised concerns about a specific proposal from the Democrats that would require hospitals to be paid more for treating illegal immigrants than American citizens, including young pregnant women. He emphasized that this demand could harm American citizens and highlighted it as a key point of contention.
In a recent appearance on CBS, Schumer countered that Republicans were not engaging seriously in discussions, claiming they have ignored requests for meetings aimed at addressing the nation’s healthcare needs.
“The American people know who’s in charge,” Schumer stated. “They expect Republicans, who control the presidency, Senate, and House, to work collaboratively to solve these issues.”
Despite GOP-backed efforts, a Senate vote on Friday for a continuing resolution only garnered 54 votes, falling short of the 60 needed for passage.
The Senate plans to reconvene on Monday afternoon to continue discussions.
