Republicans are beginning to grow "restless" as the shutdown drags on — and are starting to clamor for President Donald Trump to step in directly and handle negotiations with Democrats instead of House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA).
According to CNN, "Several GOP lawmakers have suggested that President Donald Trump take a more direct role in resolving the shutdown in recent days, including potentially opening up negotiations with Democrats if it’s what’s required to end the standoff."
"The restlessness within the Republican conference comes as both sides have continued to dig in, leaving no clear avenue toward reopening the government without a major shakeup in the dynamics on Capitol Hill," the report continued. "And it signals growing unease in parts of the GOP with the toll that the shutdown is taking on the country and over which party will ultimately shoulder the blame — even as Trump and Republican leadership project confidence that their strategy will win out."
Democrats have refused to provide the votes to help Republicans reauthorize continuing government funding until they agree to extend subsidies that stabilize Affordable Care Act premiums for millions of people.
Republicans began the shutdown by pushing false claims that Democrats wanted to expand health coverage to illegal immigrants. Now, they are adopting more of a line that they are open to negotiating on health care subsidies, but will not do so until after the government has reopened.
Democrats have refused this arrangement and further want a commitment in legislation to block Trump's Office of Management and Budget director, Russ Vought, from unilaterally canceling programs Congress authorizes.
