Skip to content

Healthcare Takes Center Stage In Shutdown Standoff

Photo by Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash

Democrats in Congress are making healthcare the centerpiece of their standoff with President Donald Trump and Republicans as the government shutdown enters its third day.

They are pushing to extend subsidies for 24 million Americans covered under the Affordable Care Act, betting that the issue of affordability and access will resonate with voters ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Republicans, holding a slim 219-213 House majority, are insisting on a short-term funding bill through November 21 without expanded subsidies. Senate Republicans, who hold a 53-47 edge, are favored to retain control as they defend relatively few battleground seats.

Democrats argue Republicans are to blame for the shutdown, citing polls showing voters lean their way. But some warn the strategy could backfire, recalling past shutdowns.

Trump and GOP leaders contend Democrats are playing politics while Americans suffer. The fight underscores both parties’ efforts to frame the shutdown as a defining campaign issue.

Also read:

Trump, Canadian PM Mark Carney To Meet Amid Tensions Over Trade And Security
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday for a “working visit” focused on economic and security ties, according to Carney’s office. The trip comes as Ottawa seeks tariff relief, with U.S. duties on autos, steel, aluminum, lumber,

Comments

Latest