Shutdown Aversion Talks Stall in Congress as Key Players Dig In
WASHINGTON – Negotiations to avert a government shutdown are currently “nowhere,” according to sources on Capitol Hill, despite some immediate pain points being temporarily delayed. The impasse centers on healthcare funding and broader policy disagreements, with both Republicans and Democrats blaming the other for the lack of progress as the deadline for a shutdown looms.
The stalemate impacts federal employees, government services, and potentially the broader economy. While the immediate effects of a shutdown have been softened for some due to timing – delaying widespread disruption – the underlying issues remain unresolved, threatening a prolonged period of uncertainty. At stake are funding levels for critical programs, the future of Affordable care Act subsidies, and the political maneuvering surrounding the upcoming elections.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., stated his willingness to meet with Democrats, but insisted any healthcare agreement “happens after they open up the government.” He further claimed to have offered a vote on a proposal addressing healthcare subsidies, without guaranteeing a favorable outcome. “These are not people who want to get things done. These are people who want to fight Trump and appease all the people who are coming into town this weekend,” Thune told reporters, referencing a “No Kings” rally organized by progressive groups opposing the Trump administration’s policies.
Democrats,however,are looking to former President Trump to break the deadlock. Many believe his penchant for deal-making and the reliance of voters in states he won on Affordable Care Act tax credits could incentivize a resolution. Data from KFF indicates that more than three in four ACA marketplace enrollees reside in states carried by Trump in 2024.
Senator Tim Kaine,D-Va., expressed optimism that a deal could be reached quickly if Trump were to become involved. “As soon as he gets engaged this thing can resolve within a day or two,” Kaine told reporters thursday.
