With the government shutdown now surpassing its 36th day, Senate Democrats are feeling increasingly confident in their strategy, attributing their recent electoral successes to the political pressure the shutdown has placed on Republicans. While some Democratic leaders are contemplating potential compromises, such as accepting a vote on expiring Obamacare subsidies in exchange for supporting a House-passed continuing resolution (CR), others, like Sen. Bernie Sanders, advocate for maintaining their stance. President Trump acknowledges the shutdown’s adverse effects on the GOP, but certain Republican senators express doubt about the lasting political impact of the ongoing standoff.
The Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, has attempted to encourage dialogue by offering Democrats a vote on the expiring subsidies and suggesting the inclusion of multiple spending bills in the CR. However, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer continues to demand more, insisting on a direct meeting with Trump to resolve the crisis. As the shutdown continues, the political dynamics are shifting, with Democrats leveraging their recent electoral wins to amplify their leverage in the negotiations.
Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., whose home state elected Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill in a blowout double-digit win over Republican Jack Ciattarelli, contended that Trump