Democrats have united behind the risky strategy of a government shutdown in their boldest effort yet to curb President Donald Trump's use of federal power, activists say. The shutdown, which began on Wednesday, stems from Democrats blocking a Republican funding measure to protest what they view as Trump's unconstitutional seizure of spending authority from Congress.
Progressive groups, including the Progressive Change Campaign Committee and MoveOn, are coordinating with Democratic leaders to demand healthcare concessions, such as extending tax credits for Affordable Care Act plans set to expire. Republicans, who control both chambers, have refused to include healthcare provisions, though some GOP lawmakers are open to extending subsidies.
Senate Democrats, needing 60 votes to advance legislation, have largely held firm, with only three breaking ranks: John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, and Angus King of Maine. The White House is making the shutdown painful, planning permanent layoffs of federal workers and punitive actions against Democratic-led states, while posting partisan messages blaming the 'Radical Left Democrat shutdown'.
Democrats argue that the stakes justify the shutdown. Senator Bernie Sanders, alongside Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, stated that Republicans aim to worsen an already broken healthcare system. Activists praise leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries for 'holding the line on healthcare', viewing this as a blueprint to safeguard other rights under attack.
House Republicans passed their short-term spending bill without Democratic support, but the Senate impasse continues. Majority Leader John Thune plans further votes this week, but Democrats remain resolute, fearing capitulation to Trump poses a greater risk to democracy.
