Schumer on Government Shutdown

On Sunday, Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader from New York, indicated that President Donald Trump is unlikely to negotiate in order to prevent a government shutdown.

Following this, Senate Democrats suggested that Trump would be responsible for the closure.

Here’s a brief overview of the discussion:

Dana Bash: Let’s discuss government funding. It’s set to run out in nine days. You and your fellow Democrats are advocating for healthcare subsidies to be included in the funding bill. I know there’s considerable pressure from your party to push back against Republicans. Does that mean a government shutdown is on the table?

Schumer: “Well, it’s really the Republicans who are poised to shut down the government. These issues matter significantly to Americans. Healthcare is deteriorating, people are losing access to care, and hospitals are shutting their doors. It’s becoming a situation that understandably frustrates many. The lack of Democratic input led to two bills failing on Friday, because Trump stated this is the only way to sidestep a shutdown.

Bash: But he’s the president and has expressed a willingness to meet with you. Will that actually happen?

Schumer: There will be a time and place to sit down and negotiate to avoid a shutdown. At this moment, he’s not even engaging with us, so, ultimately, that’s on Trump. He seems disconnected from what Americans really want. People are concerned about costs, they’re unhappy with his tariffs, and they’re frustrated with healthcare issues. When he insists it’s his way or no way, he’s essentially forcing a shutdown. This all comes down to him needing to negotiate.