The US government shutdown has entered its 39th day, with no clear end in sight. President Donald Trump has made it clear that he is unlikely to compromise with Democrats, who are demanding an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits. Trump has suggested that Congress send money directly to people to buy insurance, but this proposal is not being considered as a solution to end the shutdown. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has signaled an openness to a proposal from moderate Democrats to end the shutdown in exchange for a later vote on the “Obamacare” subsidies.
The proposal, led by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, would pay for parts of the government and extend funding for everything else until December or January, with the promise of a future healthcare vote. However, it is unclear whether enough Democrats will support this plan, and Trump appears unlikely to support an extension of the health benefits. Some Republicans have expressed openness to extending the COVID-19-era tax credits, but want new limits on who can receive the subsidies.
Trump has called for Republicans to end the shutdown quickly and scrap the filibuster, which requires 60 Senate votes for most legislation. However, Republicans have rejected this call, and Thune is eyeing a bipartisan package that mirrors the proposal from moderate Democrats. The package would replace the current bill and extend government funding until January.
Democrats are faced with a choice: keep fighting for a meaningful deal on extending the subsidies, or vote to reopen the government and hope for the best as Republicans promise an eventual healthcare vote. Sen. Chuck Schumer has persisted in arguing that Republicans should accept a one-year extension of the subsidies before negotiating the future of the tax credits. Sen. Bernie Sanders has called for Democrats to stand strong after their overwhelming victories on Election Day.
The shutdown has significant implications for millions of people, with premiums potentially skyrocketing if the subsidies are not extended. Republicans and Democrats are under pressure to find a solution, with the current bill only extending government funding until November 21. A test vote on new legislation could come in the next few days, and Democrats will have to decide whether to keep fighting for a meaningful deal or vote to reopen the government. The outcome remains uncertain, with both parties dug in and unwilling to compromise.