WASHINGTON (AP) — Speaker of the House Mike Johnson warned Monday that the federal government shutdown could become the longest in U.S. history. He stated that he “will not negotiate” with Democrats until they halt their healthcare requirements and agree to reopen the government.
Johnson, speaking from the Capitol on the 13th day of the shutdown, reported he was unaware of the numerous federal employee layoffs triggered by the ongoing budget impasse. This unprecedented situation has raised concerns regarding the Trump administration's approach to using the shutdown as a means to streamline government operations.
Vice President JD Vance has cautioned of “painful” cuts to government programs, with employee unions responding with legal action to combat the administration's strategies. “We’re barreling toward one of the longest shutdowns in American history,” Johnson noted from Louisiana.
The deadlock has drastically affected government procedures, leading to the closure of national landmarks and causing disruptions at airports, introducing even more uncertainty into the already precarious economic climate.
The House remains out of legislative session, with Johnson refusing to reconvene members. Meanwhile, the Senate is grappling with failed votes related to healthcare discussions stalling progress toward an agreement.
Amidst this political blockade, Johnson acknowledged that President Trump had taken steps to ensure military paychecks are sustained despite the ongoing crisis, mitigating one critical pressure point that could force both parties toward a compromise.
At the heart of the government shutdown lies a contentious debate over healthcare policy, particularly regarding the Affordable Care Act subsidies that are set to expire. Democrats are insisting on extensions for these subsidies, which are vital for millions of Americans, while Republicans assert that the issue can be postponed until after the government is reopened.
As Congress approaches critical deadlines, especially with the upcoming open enrollment period beginning November 1 and the looming expiration of subsidy payments, the urgency for a resolution intensifies. The Kaiser Family Foundation has predicted that, without intervention, monthly insurance premiums could double, affecting millions nationwide.
The ongoing healthcare debate has haunted Congress since the Affordable Care Act was signed into law in 2010, bringing past experiences back to the forefront as similar disputes have caused government shutdowns in the past.
Johnson expressed skepticism about fully repealing the Affordable Care Act, suggesting the party's approach may need reevaluation. He stipulated that Republicans are open to discussing healthcare issues but emphasized that their primary condition is the reopening of the government.
The potential for history-making timelines in this shutdown reflects the broader struggle within Congress to achieve a compromise amidst rising tensions and differing ideological stances.
