Congress Stalemate Persists as Government Shutdown Looms

Fri Oct 10 2025 14:18:41 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As the U.S. government shutdown continues into a fifth day, congressional leaders from both parties remain at an impasse, primarily over healthcare funding issues.

Negotiations to end the U.S. government shutdown are stalled as both Democratic and Republican leaders blame each other. Healthcare subsidies and Medicaid cuts are at the center of the dispute, with the Senate reconvening to address potential solutions. Recent polls indicate that public sentiment is critical of both parties' handling of the situation.

Democratic and Republican leaders remain far apart on how to end the partial shutdown of the US government as another day of voting approaches on Monday.

In separate Sunday interviews with NBC's Meet the Press, House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries and Republican leader Mike Johnson each blamed the other party for the continued standoff, which will head to its fifth day on Monday.

The crux of the issue is healthcare; Democrats want to ensure health insurance subsidies for low-income individuals do not expire and are aiming to reverse cuts to the Medicaid health program.

A bill to fund the government has passed the House but has repeatedly failed in the Senate.

Jeffries accused Republicans of 'lying' about the Democrats' intentions due to losing public opinion, while Johnson rebutted that Democrats are 'not serious' and are negotiating in bad faith.

The Senate is expected to reconvene on Monday afternoon to address a pair of continuing resolutions to fund the government. Meanwhile, House Democrats will meet to discuss the situation further.

Johnson has extended a House recess through the week, meaning Congress' lower chamber will not consider a funding bill should the Senate enact any changes or reach a deal.

Republicans hold a narrow 53-seat majority in the 100-seat Senate, but any funding measure will require 60 votes to pass.

During the NBC interview, Johnson maintained that Democrats' refusal to approve a short-term funding bill is unnecessary, stating that healthcare tax credits do not expire until the year's end and accusing the Democratic proposal of increasing spending in a short-term measure.

Jeffries stressed the dire consequences of the expiring credits, claiming they would lead to increased premiums and deductibles for millions of American taxpayers. He criticized Trump's management of the shutdown and called for serious leadership in negotiations.

Poll data from CBS shows that Americans are dissatisfied with both parties regarding the shutdown, with many concerned about economic impacts. The National Gallery of Art announced it would close due to lack of funding as the shutdown extends into its second week.

As tensions rise and negotiations stall, both sides face increasing pressure to address the shutdown's impacts on Americans.