Trump’s Comments Undermine GOP Shutdown Strategy
President Donald Trump’s statements and actions have created internal tensions within the Republican Party as they navigate the ongoing government shutdown. Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are striving to maintain a cohesive message, asserting that negotiations over extending Affordable Care Act subsidies will occur only after the government is back in operation. However, Trump’s recent remarks contradict this stance, with him referencing health care negotiations that do not seem to exist, thereby challenging the unity of the GOP. Additionally, the White House’s memo on potential unpaid backpay for furloughed workers has stirred further confusion, as Republicans have to refute such claims, given the 2019 legislation ensuring all federal workers are paid following a shutdown. Some rank-and-file members are also pushing for new legislation, with Rep. Rob Bresnahan proposing measures to exempt federal income taxes during the shutdown and Rep. Andy Biggs aiming to repeal Obamacare. Despite these internal dynamics, bipartisan talks continue with some senators engaging in dialogue with Democrats, indicating that collaboration remains a possibility amid the political turmoil.