Frustration is rising over the lack of progress on government shutdown discussions, making it feel like a repetitive cycle for senators.
On Monday, the Senate voted on a Republican “clean” stopgap funding proposal and a Democratic alternative, neither of which advanced. With no new developments from either side, it seems the chamber will again consider the same continuing resolution (CR) on Tuesday and Thursday.
This lack of progress has only deepened the stalemate. Interestingly, while higher-level negotiations appear stagnant, conversations among regular lawmakers seem to have lessened, though they remain ongoing.
“It’s disappointing. I had hoped for more headway,” remarked Sen. Minecround (Rs.D.), who participated in informal discussions with Democrats, yet minimal progress was achieved. “Our Democratic colleagues need to show if they are willing to engage.”
After a weekend break, the Senate returned but, as expected, not much had changed. Notably, members of the Democratic Caucus, like Catherine Cortez (D-Nev.), Angus King (I-Maine), and John Fetterman (D-Pa.), were absent from the vote. Both parties seemed to be in a standoff, lacking any inclination to compromise.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (Rs.D.) has expressed little motivation to meet with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), pointing out that there’s no real negotiation on the “clean” bill, especially considering that Democrats have backed similar CRs in the past. He stated he would only engage with Schumer “if it proves useful.”
The GOP leader also intends to keep pursuing votes for the same legislation, both the “clean” bill and the Democratic proposal.
“We’re essentially in the same position,” Thune commented, adding that, over the weekend, he did not communicate with New York’s Democrats. “It’s unclear what they aim to negotiate.” He further mentioned, “We’ve clearly stated that we want to restart the spending process, and eventually, I think some of his members will find a way to agree, but they seem stuck for now.”
Meanwhile, Schumer is pushing to maintain Democratic unity during the shutdown, emphasizing that his efforts regarding the expiration of healthcare credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) signal a positive stance even as the shutdown continues.
“After five failed votes, it’s evident to Republicans that they can’t proceed without sitting down and negotiating earnestly with Democrats about the healthcare crisis. It’s that straightforward,” Schumer told reporters following the vote.
Adding complexity, a recent CBS News poll revealed that 39% of Americans hold President Trump and the Republicans responsible for the shutdown, while 30% blame the Democrats. This is consistent with a previous Washington Post poll, where 47% pointed fingers at Trump and the GOP, with 30% faulting the Democrats. Both polls indicate a significant number of respondents holding both parties responsible or expressing uncertainty.
In simpler terms, neither side has a decisive edge in this blame game, which might explain the reluctance to compromise.
“I don’t believe anyone truly benefits from this,” noted Sen. Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), pointing out evidence of “equal accountability.” She expressed concern over the erosion of credibility, stating, “We can’t operate effectively while everyday Americans try to lead their lives.”
Conversely, Democrats are looking to turn the narrative, aiming to gain momentum from Trump’s involvement in the negotiations.
Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) are largely steering the narrative, acting as barriers against Democrats eager to engage Trump in discussions.
“He’s currently the decision-maker for the Republicans,” asserted Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). “It’s vital for him to step in… In the end, we’ll do what President Trump ultimately directs.”
Trump indicated on Monday that he is open to collaborating with Democrats on expiring ACA credits, which are at the center of the ongoing debates.
“We’re in negotiations with Democrats, which could lead to beneficial outcomes, particularly regarding healthcare,” Trump said from the Oval Office.
Democratic leaders pushed back, asserting that such negotiations were not currently underway, but expressed willingness to participate.
“Trump’s statements aren’t accurate, but if he’s prepared to collaborate with us, we’re ready to engage,” Schumer mentioned. “If President Trump and the Republicans are genuinely ready to address healthcare for American families, Democrats are here to work on that.”
However, later in the day, Trump revisited his remarks, suggesting he was portraying a collaborative spirit with Democrats. Yet, he emphasized that the government must be reopened first. “They should reopen the government tonight!” he urged.
In another twist, the situation largely rests with the Senate, as the House is out of session this week. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) canceled a planned vote, indicating that House members would remain in their districts until the Senate resolves the impasse.
“I’m looking forward to getting my team back,” Johnson remarked to reporters. “I want to return to legislative business, but we can’t resume until they turn the lights back on. We need Chuck Schumer to facilitate the government reopening.”
If the shutdown lingers, it could disrupt the schedule for senators, who are scheduled for a break next week. Thune mentioned that they have yet to decide on canceling that break.
