Senators Pursue Weekend Talks as Trump Rejects Shutdown Compromise

Senators convened over the weekend in an unprecedented session, seeking a bipartisan resolution to the government shutdown that has now persisted for over 39 days. This shutdown has left federal workers unpaid, disrupted airline operations, and delayed vital SNAP benefits for millions of Americans. As talks commenced on Saturday, uncertainty loomed over whether Republicans and Democrats could navigate the partisan impasse that has characterized the ongoing crisis.

President Donald Trump expressed resistance to any compromise with Democrats, particularly regarding their demands for an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits. He took to social media, labeling the healthcare situation in the United States as “the worst Healthcare anywhere in the world.” Instead, Trump suggested that Congress should prioritize sending direct financial assistance to individuals for purchasing insurance.

Amidst this backdrop, Senate Republican leaders showed willingness to consider a proposal from a faction of moderate Democrats aimed at ending the shutdown. This proposal would involve a delayed vote on the controversial “Obamacare” subsidies. Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, a key figure in the negotiations, stated that Democrats “need another path forward” following the rejection of a previous offer from Democratic leader Chuck Schumer. Schumer’s proposal sought to reopen the government while extending the subsidies for a year.

Efforts among moderates are ongoing, as Shaheen and her colleagues discuss potential bills to fund critical government operations, including food aid and veterans’ programs, while proposing an extension of funding for other areas until December or January. The plan is contingent upon a future healthcare vote, lacking a firm commitment for extended subsidies. It remains to be seen whether sufficient Democratic support exists for such an approach.

Even if an agreement emerges, Trump’s support for extending health benefits appears unlikely. House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana also indicated that he would not commit to a health vote, further complicating the path forward. Republican leaders require only five additional votes to fund the government, with negotiations currently involving a group of 10 to 12 Democratic senators. Some Republicans have indicated openness to extending COVID-19-era tax credits, particularly given the potential for skyrocketing premiums affecting millions of Americans. However, they insist on introducing new limitations on who qualifies for these subsidies.

Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota noted that discussions with a number of Democrats have been constructive, reflecting an inclination toward finding common ground. Trump has urged Republicans to expedite the shutdown resolution and eliminate the filibuster, which necessitates 60 Senate votes for most legislation, allowing them to bypass Democratic opposition. Vice President JD Vance backed this idea, asserting online that Republicans who advocate for maintaining the filibuster are “wrong.”

Despite Trump’s call for a swift end to the shutdown, Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota is contemplating a bipartisan package that aligns with the proposal being discussed by moderate Democrats. The specifics of any assurances regarding healthcare remain unclear, as the proposed package would replace legislation that House Democrats have rejected numerous times since the shutdown began on October 1, 2023. The current bill only offers funding until November 21.

A critical vote on new legislation could occur in the coming days if Thune decides to advance his proposal. This situation presents a significant decision for Democrats: whether to persist in their efforts for a substantial deal regarding the subsidy extensions or to vote to reopen the government without a guaranteed outcome on healthcare, hoping for future negotiations. Following a caucus meeting, many Democrats indicated a preference to maintain pressure on Trump and Republican leaders for negotiations.

Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii acknowledged the lack of consensus among Democrats but emphasized that “without something on health care, the vote is very unlikely to succeed.” Independent Senator Bernie Sanders, who aligns with the Democratic caucus, called for unity in demanding an extension of the subsidies, citing the recent significant Democratic victories on Election Day as a mandate for action.

As discussions continue, the stakes remain high for millions of Americans affected by the shutdown, with the outcome of these negotiations poised to impact both fiscal policy and healthcare access across the nation.