Government Shutdown Discussion
On CNBC’s “Squawk Box” this past Friday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) addressed the ongoing government shutdown, clarifying that it “isn’t about influence.” He emphasized that if Democratic senators’ votes are needed, there should indeed be bipartisan discussions aimed at creating a spending bill that improves lives. However, he firmly stated that Democrats do not support partisan spending from Republicans. “We want to reopen the government immediately,” he highlighted, indicating that they have no intention of using the shutdown for leverage.
Jeffries continued, pointing out that “we are not shutting down the government.” He noted that with Donald Trump as president and Republicans in control of both the House and Senate, it’s crucial to understand that Democrats will not back Republican spending bills that harm healthcare access, particularly following historic cuts to Medicaid.
“This isn’t about leveraging situations,” Jeffries remarked. He reiterated that if Democratic involvement is necessary for votes, discussions should be focused on passing a spending bill that genuinely benefits citizens and addresses high living costs—a promise that Trump and the Republicans made from the outset.
Co-host Joe Kernen raised a question regarding changes in the Democratic stance since the past government shutdown in 2013, when they were willing to negotiate after the government reopened. He asked what distinguishes the current situation from that earlier event and whether the shutdown could potentially yield concessions from Republicans.
In response, Jeffries asserted, “We’re not using the government shutdown for concessions. Our aim is to reopen the government promptly.” He criticized Trump for not engaging with Democrats over the last 24 days, suggesting that Trump has prioritized golf and other interests over necessary discussions. Jeffries expressed that Trump has found time for various initiatives—including requesting taxpayer money for the Justice Department—yet struggles to restart the government or extend Affordable Care Act tax credits, indicating a troubling prioritization of interests.
