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Shutdown standoff: Democrats say no thanks to Thune's offer, citing lack of trust in Republicans' word.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has offered a vote on extending Obamacare subsidies in exchange for Democrats voting to reopen the government. However, his proposal seems to have fallen flat with Democratic lawmakers. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) dismissed the offer, stating that it's been almost three weeks since Republicans requested Democrats request a similar guarantee and they haven't come through.
The lack of trust in Republicans' word is a major sticking point for Democrats. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) made it clear that he doesn't believe Thune can vouch for the House or the White House, which are still refusing to negotiate on the subsidies. Similarly, Senator Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) expressed frustration with the proposal, saying it's not enough and needs more substantial commitment from Republicans.
Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) also shot down Thune's offer, stating that he never even extended it to him. The lack of transparency is a major issue for Democrats, who want a real path forward on addressing healthcare issues.
Despite the lack of progress, there are subtle signs that negotiations may be starting to gain traction. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) maintained that Democrats still want a deal on the subsidies before supporting a government funding bill. However, it's clear that Republicans will need to make significant concessions in order to build trust with Democrats.
In response to Thune's proposal, a spokesperson for Johnson stated "Democrats will not take 'yes' for an answer." The question is what it would take for Republicans to gain the trust of Democrats and move forward on finding a solution.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has offered a vote on extending Obamacare subsidies in exchange for Democrats voting to reopen the government. However, his proposal seems to have fallen flat with Democratic lawmakers. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) dismissed the offer, stating that it's been almost three weeks since Republicans requested Democrats request a similar guarantee and they haven't come through.
The lack of trust in Republicans' word is a major sticking point for Democrats. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) made it clear that he doesn't believe Thune can vouch for the House or the White House, which are still refusing to negotiate on the subsidies. Similarly, Senator Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) expressed frustration with the proposal, saying it's not enough and needs more substantial commitment from Republicans.
Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) also shot down Thune's offer, stating that he never even extended it to him. The lack of transparency is a major issue for Democrats, who want a real path forward on addressing healthcare issues.
Despite the lack of progress, there are subtle signs that negotiations may be starting to gain traction. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) maintained that Democrats still want a deal on the subsidies before supporting a government funding bill. However, it's clear that Republicans will need to make significant concessions in order to build trust with Democrats.
In response to Thune's proposal, a spokesperson for Johnson stated "Democrats will not take 'yes' for an answer." The question is what it would take for Republicans to gain the trust of Democrats and move forward on finding a solution.