House Speaker Rejects Democratic Demands

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has emphasized that House Republicans are not bothered by Democrats’ ongoing push for medical concessions.

“Don’t ask Republicans what to do or how to negotiate. There’s nothing to negotiate. I sent them exactly what they had previously voted for,” Johnson told reporters during a press conference.

“We didn’t include any Republican regulations, and we aimed to keep this straightforward and sincere.”

GOP Claims Democrats Are Jeopardizing Funding

Johnson’s remarks come as Democrats and Republicans find themselves at an impasse regarding federal funding for the fiscal year 2025, which ended on September 30.

The House has approved measures to maintain current federal spending levels until November 21, allowing Congress time to finalize a long-term budget for 2026. This bill, referred to as the Continuing Resolution (CR), has mostly passed along party lines.

Yet, progress remains stalled in the Senate, as Democrats need to acquire sufficient support to meet the 60-vote threshold required to break a filibuster.

Democrats have turned down the GOP funding proposal three times, with the latest rejection occurring on Wednesday. They argue that they will not support funding deals that do not expand the Affordable Care Act and the related subsidies, which were increased during the pandemic. These enhanced subsidies are set to expire at year’s end without legislative intervention.

Debate Over Funding and Services

Johnson expressed his frustration, stating, “People ask why I won’t negotiate. I literally have nothing to negotiate. They can either vote now or keep the government closed. It’s baffling to me that they would cause more harm.” He added that it is solely their responsibility if the government shuts down.