Democrats on Verge of Historic Government Shutdown
Democrats may soon set a record for the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, with some legislators suggesting it could last until the end of November.
As millions of Americans prepare to vote on Tuesday in states like California, New Jersey, and Virginia, the government shutdown enters its 35th day. Funding discussions continue in the background, but the lapse is expected to extend into Wednesday, positioning Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer as overseeing the longest shutdown ever.
Some figures on the left of the party believe that favorable election results for Democrats should encourage them to keep the government closed until their demands are met.
“I think it’s clear that people want us to advocate for them, and results tomorrow might reinforce that,” Democratic Senator Chris Murphy from Connecticut, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, told reporters on Monday. “This is a terrible predicament that [President Donald] Trump has created, where we’re weighing one type of suffering against another. It seems that folks want us to stand our ground.”
Murphy cautioned that “people will die” if Republicans don’t agree to extend enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire at the year’s end. Republicans have been firm in their stance, insisting they won’t budge on health care issues until Democrats agree to reopen the government.
The previous 35-day shutdown during Trump’s first term was the longest on record, primarily concerning funding for a wall at the southern border. That shutdown felt less intense, as Congress had already approved funding for various agencies, including the Department of Defense.
However, Democrats seem willing to endure the consequences of a shutdown, despite disruptions in air travel due to worker shortages, small businesses suffering from halted federal contracts and loan programs, and millions of Americans losing access to federal food benefits. Numerous federal workers have also gone without pay, leading many to seek second jobs or visit food banks for assistance.
“We need to reopen the government, but we can’t compromise on health care,” Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal stated.
“We’re hearing from people in Miami whose medical premiums have skyrocketed. They can’t access the cancer care they need because President Trump seems to prefer a shutdown over helping with health care costs,” remarked Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts. “That’s really tough to see.”
An analysis from Paragon Health Research Institute notes that the expiration of enhanced ACA tax credits will only contribute to 3.3% of the tax increase projected for 2026.
Some Republicans hold out hope that a few Democrats may break ranks with Schumer and vote to reopen the government after Tuesday’s election results. They need the support of five more Senate Democrats to pass a clean continuing resolution to end the stalemate.
“My impression is that for some Democrats, delaying until after tomorrow’s election could be problematic,” expressed Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine as she left the Capitol on Monday evening.
“I believe we are finally making progress,” Collins continued. “While it may be premature to declare this shutdown over, I’m optimistic we might see a resolution by the week’s end.”
