Speaker Mike Johnson’s strategic decision to keep the House in recess has entered its sixth week, intensifying pressure on Senate Democrats amid an ongoing government shutdown. This shutdown is nearing a record, poised to surpass the 2018-2019 impasse that lasted 35 days. Johnson’s tactics have drawn both support and criticism as tensions rise.
For weeks, Senate Democrats have rejected the GOP’s short-term federal funding plan 13 times. Despite some signs of potential compromise, leaders from both parties remain entrenched in their positions. Meanwhile, millions of Americans face uncertainty, with necessary funding for essential programs set to run dry imminently.
One of the most significant programs at risk is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which serves about 42 million Americans who rely on food stamps. Starting Saturday, benefits may be affected, leaving many families vulnerable. Additionally, funding for the Women, Infants, and Children program (WIC) and the Head Start program for low-income families is also in jeopardy. These are critical resources that millions depend on, and their interruption would amplify the crisis.
Republicans have proposed a continuing resolution (CR), a flat seven-week funding extension that includes $88 million earmarked for security measures affecting lawmakers, the White House, and the judicial branch… elements that enjoy bipartisan support. However, Democrats are frustrated by their exclusion from funding negotiations. They were particularly eager to ensure the extension of Obamacare subsidies made available during the COVID-19 pandemic, which are set to lapse by the end of 2025 without legislative action.
Compounding the situation, the looming open enrollment period for health coverage starts on the same day funding for these programs could be halted. Democrats hope this timeline will pressure Republicans into providing concessions, but thus far, Johnson has maintained that the House will not reconvene until Senate Democrats agree to end the shutdown.
Johnson has directed House Republicans to remain in their districts during this time, focusing on communicating the impacts of the shutdown to their constituents. A united front has mostly characterized House Republicans, but friction is beginning to emerge. Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Kevin Kiley, and Dan Crenshaw have each voiced concerns about the effectiveness of the current strategy.
Crenshaw’s recent remarks highlight a growing sense of unease within the GOP ranks. “I’m no longer convinced that staying out of session has benefits that outweigh the costs,” he said, marking a shift in tone from prior support for Johnson’s approach. As frustrations mount and the shutdown continues, it remains to be seen whether these internal concerns will ignite further dissent among Republicans or compel a change in strategy.
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