WASHINGTON (AP) — During a press briefing Monday, Republican Speaker Mike Johnson projected that the federal government shutdown could become the longest in American history, asserting he will not engage in negotiations with Democrats until they agree to suspend their health care demands. This announcement comes on the 13th day of the shutdown, which has already prompted significant disruptions to federal operations and thousands of layoffs.
Standing alone at the Capitol, Johnson discussed the mass layoffs initiated by the Trump administration, which many view as a strategic move to diminish government scope amid the ongoing shutdown. Vice President JD Vance has likewise expressed concerns about 'painful' cuts ahead, as employee unions begin to file lawsuits against the administration.
'We’re barreling toward one of the longest shutdowns in American history,' asserted Johnson of Louisiana.
The prolonged closure has shut down routine government operations, closed cultural institutions like the Smithsonian, and caused flight disruptions at airports, all adding uncertainty to an already fragile economy. Meanwhile, the House remains out of session, with Johnson declining to bring lawmakers back to negotiate, while the Senate is set to reconvene after the holiday.
Amid this legislative standstill, there is a looming deadline associated with health care policy that many believe could incentivize both parties to resume negotiations. Open enrollment for health insurance, which begins on November 1, is tied to the potential expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies that millions rely on.
Johnson thanked President Trump for ensuring that military personnel would be paid during this period, marking a pivotal moment in discussions concerning fiscal responsibility and shutdown negotiations.
As the bipartisan debate over health care continues, Johnson's firm stance raises questions about how soon an agreement can be reached, especially with the backdrop of historical shutdowns hampering regular government functions.
The longest shutdown on record lasted 35 days during Trump's term concerning border wall funding. With critical demands aligning around health care during this shutdown, the outcome remains uncertain as both sides stand firm.
