The recent Senate vote to end the government shutdown ignited a firestorm of criticism, not from the opposing party, but from within the Democratic ranks themselves. Late-night comedians wasted no time dissecting the outcome, framing it as a significant retreat after weeks of staunch opposition.
The Senate passed a short-term funding bill 60-40, a result achieved only with the support of seven Democrats and one independent senator. This compromise notably excluded an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies, a key demand Democrats had fiercely defended throughout the standoff. The bill now heads to the House, leaving many feeling betrayed.
Jimmy Kimmel didn’t mince words, accusing Democrats of drawing a firm line in the sand only to completely abandon their position after 41 days. He specifically targeted Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, suggesting a pattern of weak follow-through reminiscent of a parent unable to enforce rules.
Jon Stewart revisited Schumer’s earlier, defiant rhetoric on social media, where he’d vowed to protect healthcare access for millions. Stewart juxtaposed this with a Fox News report declaring a Democratic “cave” on the shutdown, highlighting the stark contrast between promise and reality. The shift felt like a complete reversal of principle.
Stephen Colbert acknowledged the hardship the shutdown imposed on many, but argued the Democratic Party had achieved virtually nothing in return for the prolonged struggle. He sarcastically pointed to a promised vote on the subsidies in December, dismissing it as a distraction from meaningful action.
The discontent extended beyond the comedy circuit, with prominent Democrats like California Governor Gavin Newsom expressing disappointment with their Senate colleagues. He asserted that American citizens deserve stronger leadership than what was displayed during the shutdown negotiations.
Senator Bernie Sanders echoed this sentiment, labeling the vote “very, very bad” and criticizing the eight Democrats who sided with Republicans. He contrasted their actions with the recent Democratic successes in other elections, suggesting a troubling inconsistency.
Despite the widespread criticism, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries publicly defended Schumer’s leadership, even while acknowledging his disapproval of the Senate deal. He pledged continued opposition to what he termed a “Republican healthcare crisis” within the House of Representatives.
