Senate Democrats who supported ending the shutdown receive commendation.

Senate Democrats Break Ranks to End Government Shutdown

The Washington Post’s editorial board shared their thoughts on Sunday, expressing approval for the eight Senate Democrats who chose to defy party leadership by supporting the House-passed continuing resolution. They pointed out that historically, “parties that hold government hostage to advance their policy goals rarely succeed.”

In their analysis, the board likened the current shutdown—prolonged and contentious—to the one instigated by conservatives in 2013 when attempts were made to defund Obamacare. They argued that, similar to that situation, Democrats now seem swayed by “angry activists” to pursue actions that, well, might not really lead anywhere productive.

“Just like before, Democrats face inevitable failures and predictable backlash from their own dissatisfied followers,” the editorial noted.

The editorial also criticized the performance of many on the left during this prolonged shutdown, sensing a sort of disappointment. Notably, figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Greg Cassar have expressed strong disapproval of the bipartisan measure, labeling it a “political disaster” and “capitulation,” respectively. The Post mentioned that Governor Gavin Newsom similarly described the situation as “pathetic.” There’s a feeling that the anger stems from unmet expectations—specifically, Democrats’ inability to extend COVID-19-era subsidies under Obamacare—but perhaps that outrage isn’t quite as necessary as some suggest.

Historical patterns show that parties leveraging government shutdowns for political gains tend to achieve little, the editorial reinforced. They referenced past failed attempts, like Republicans’ bid to defund Obamacare in 2013 and Trump’s unsuccessful effort to secure border wall funding in 2019. The Post emphasized, as seen in recent events with airlines, that even a partial shutdown becomes politically untenable.

In a more positive light, the board commended the eight senators who broke ranks with the Democratic caucus—especially focusing on three senators who went against the tide and voted to end the shutdown. These senators include Dick Durbin from Illinois, Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire, and Tim Kaine from Virginia, among others.

The editorial also pointed fingers at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for his lack of support, critiquing him for allowing his colleagues to face opposition alone. Schumer’s decision to vote against the reopening, according to the Editorial Board, puts other members at risk of backlash from the party base. It’s suggested that perhaps Schumer is more concerned with potential future challenges in elections.

The board went on to express concern for the ongoing liberal push to extend the shutdown, arguing that some might not fully recognize the unnecessary suffering it has caused. They wondered about the prospects of another shutdown looming as the new deal only ensures funding through January 30.

The editorial concluded with an ambiguous outlook: “Many in Congress will likely oppose reopening, but it’s hoped that a resolution can be reached soon. This situation is merely a short-term fix.” The legislative proposal would extend funding for various government agencies, yet the uncertainty remains about lawmakers truly learning from their past decisions.