A pall of pessimism settled over Capitol Hill as Senator John Kennedy bluntly assessed the ongoing government shutdown, now stretching into its 38th day. He predicted a resolution wasn’t imminent, dismissing hopeful talk of a quick end to the impasse and suggesting weeks of continued disruption lay ahead.
Kennedy, speaking to reporters, estimated at least seven to ten days, and potentially two weeks, before any real progress could be expected. His assessment stemmed from a closed-door meeting with fellow Republican senators, revealing a grim outlook on the negotiations.
The core obstacle, according to Kennedy, remained a firm Democratic front against a short-term spending extension. He indicated Democrats, bowing to pressure from their more progressive members, were prepared to vote down the measure, effectively prolonging the stalemate.
The shutdown began in early October when Democrats, led by Senate and House leaders, rejected a Republican funding bill. Their demand centered on addressing expiring healthcare subsidies tied to the Affordable Care Act, initially implemented as a pandemic response.
Republicans, however, staunchly maintain these subsidies are separate from core government funding and have refused to link the two issues. Experts estimate extending the subsidies without modification could add $30 billion annually to the national debt.
Despite some Republicans expressing a willingness to discuss the subsidies, Kennedy emphasized that any consideration would come *after* the government reopens. He stated unequivocally that Republicans wouldn’t simply concede to Democratic demands.
“They want a vote on the Obamacare subsidies – and guaranteed passage,” Kennedy explained, painting a bleak picture. “Then we’re going to be shut down for a long time because that’s just not going to happen.”
A vote on the Republican spending extension is scheduled for Friday, but its fate appears uncertain. The Senate’s plans for the weekend and the upcoming Veterans Day recess remain unclear, adding another layer of uncertainty to the already fraught situation.
