democrats Hold Firm as Government Shutdown Continues Amidst Republican Criticism
WASHINGTON D.C. – The US federal government remains partially shut down as Democrats resist pressure too compromise with Republicans, a standoff escalating as the closure enters its latest phase. The dispute centers on federal spending and policy demands, with both sides accusing the other of intransigence.
Republicans, led by House Speaker mike Johnson, are increasingly vocal in their criticism of Democrats, alleging they are beholden to a “far-left base.” Johnson has specifically pointed to the influence of groups he characterizes as “antifa,” “pro-Hamas,” and “Marxists,” claiming they are intimidating Democratic senators. He referenced a planned “No Kings” protest scheduled for October 18,labeling it a “hate America rally” and suggesting Democrats fear backlash from attendees if they end the shutdown.
“It is an outrageous gathering for outrageous purposes, but the Democrats in the Senate have shown that they’re afraid of that crowd,” Johnson stated. “They’re willing to hold the American people hostage so that they don’t have to face an angry mob – that’s a big chunk of their base.”
However, progressive groups like Indivisible assert Democrats are responding to strong public support for their positions. Ezra Levin, co-executive director of Indivisible, believes the party is strategically shifting, stating, “The Democrats…have understood were their folks want them to go, and are actually taking it and fighting back.”
Indivisible previously called for Senator Chuck Schumer to step aside as minority leader in March after he worked with Republicans to keep the government open. Now, the group is coordinating with Schumer’s office to support Democratic lawmakers during the shutdown and advocates for maintaining firm demands.
Levin argues Democratic demands are “wildly popular” and that Republicans cannot be trusted to uphold any agreements, citing a rescissions package passed in July that clawed back $9 billion in funding for public media and foreign aid. Johnson has indicated he is considering another such package.
“This regime is treating the federal budget like a personal bank account for Donald Trump, and we should stop that,” Levin said. “No deal is a real deal unless you have rescission and payment language.” He further contends that Republicans are pursuing policies that harm communities, such as closing rural hospitals and increasing costs.
