Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune said that if a “critical mass” of Democrats support the House-passed continuing resolution bill to fund the government, he would be willing to negotiate health care reform, specifically the Affordable Care Act (ACA), in an exclusive interview with Politico.
Newsweek reached out to Thune’s office for comment Wednesday night.
Why It Matters
The U.S. federal government entered its first shutdown in six years after lawmakers failed to pass a new funding bill, disrupting services for millions and compounding existing strains on a workforce diminished by record departures this year.
The standoff exposes deep partisan divides over health care funding and future fiscal priorities, with potential repercussions for federal workers, ongoing public services and the economy at large. The competing strategies of Republicans and Democrats—centered on whether to link funding to health care subsidies—could set the tone for legislative cooperation or gridlock heading into future elections and key budget deadlines.
What To Know
In his interview with Politico, Thune, of South Dakota, signaled willingness to discuss future negotiations on expiring Obamacare insurance subsidies if a sufficient number of Democrats agree to pass the House-passed continuing resolution, which would extend funding through November 21. Thune said he would not negotiate on the substantive extension of subsidies or broader health care reforms until the government is no longer shut down.
“I keep telling them: When they have eight or 10—preferably 10, or more—when they have a critical mass, let me know if there’s a conversation they want to have,” Thune said to Politico. The comments are in line with previous remarks the lawmaker has made about his openness for discussion.
Democrats demand immediate extension of enhanced ACA subsidies and the reversal of Medicaid cuts, as Republican leaders, including Thune, emphasize that passing the current GOP-backed House bill is the only viable path to reopening the government.
“Some of those conversations are happening,” Thune said to Politico. “With our members and their members, there’s a lot of back-and-forth going on right now about some of the things they would like to see happen.”
“What I can’t guarantee, of course, is an outcome and, in particular, one that would clear in the House too,” Thune said later in the interview. “The White House is another factor here. But I think everybody realizes we want solutions.”
What People Are Saying
Thune, on X Wednesday: “Democrats passed CRs 13 different times when they had the majority and Biden was president. They have lost all rationale when it comes to their hatred for President Trump. I hope Democrats will come to their senses and reopen the government.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, also on X Wednesday: “Republicans shut down the government because they can’t be bothered to protect health care for Americans across this country. Premiums are set to more than double! Americans cannot afford this.”
This is a developing story that will be updated with additional information.
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