Democratic leaders are echoing the sentiments of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who indicated that an extended government shutdown may actually favor the Democrats politically.
On Thursday, the Daily Caller News Foundation spoke to eight Democratic legislators, and none took issue with Schumer’s assertion that the shutdown could work to Democrats’ advantage. Schumer remarked to Punchbowl News that “every day is getting better for us” amid the shutdown and expressed confidence that voters approve of their stance to maintain the shutdown.
Sen. Brian Schatz from Hawaii, who is part of the Democratic leadership, commented on Republican backlash to Schumer’s remarks, suggesting that Republicans are desperate to shift the narrative. “This is their latest attempt,” he noted.
Sen. Chris Murphy from Connecticut also weighed in, pointing out that Republicans seem to be misrepresenting Schumer’s words, which he feels were aimed at halting healthcare spending increases and illegal activities.
The majority of Senate Democrats are standing firm, insisting that they won’t fund the government unless Republicans agree to over $1.5 trillion in new spending. Republicans have dismissed these demands outright, stating they won’t negotiate until Schumer can secure the votes to reopen the government.
Interestingly, the Connecticut Democratic Party then contradicted Schumer, stating that it would be better if the shutdown concluded sooner. Murphy mentioned that the only way to end the shutdown is for Republicans to engage in discussions about reducing healthcare costs.
On Thursday, Murphy and 43 Democratic colleagues voted against a bipartisan bill to fund the government for the seventh time. It appears that Democrats are hesitant to resume government operations unless their demands are met, prolonging the shutdown with no clear resolution in sight.
On the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and his colleague John Barrasso criticized Schumer’s statements. Barrasso posed a question: “Who does he mean by ‘we’?” referring to those who are not receiving pay during the shutdown.
Additionally, Republican leaders expressed disdain for Schumer’s comments, with Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley stating that the situation illustrates a concerning mindset. “Every day is bad for the American people,” he commented, emphasizing that Democrats seem to be scoring political points at the expense of American workers.
Ohio Sen. Bernie Moreno described it as sad that some view this as a political game, labeling it as a radical stance lacking regard for people’s lives.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries sidestepped a reporter’s inquiry regarding whether Schumer’s comments were insensitive, reiterating that Democrats in both chambers are unified on their shutdown strategy.
As the government shutdown stretches into its ninth day, millions of Americans are facing the prospect of missed paychecks, and some businesses are beginning to struggle. Democrats seem prepared for a drawn-out confrontation.
Democratic New Jersey Sen. Andy Kim expressed optimism, saying he believes their message is resonating. “Every day that passes, people are realizing how expensive healthcare is,” he remarked, suggesting this will bolster their case against Republicans.
Rep. Jimmy Gomez from California conveyed that federal workers experiencing furloughs or working without pay should remain steadfast in their support for the Democratic strategy during the shutdown. He shared that federal officials are advising against capitulation, implying that those negatively impacted by former President Trump’s comments should not forget their implications.
