The Excerpt SPECIAL | The politics of shutdown
Oct 8, 2025
Bart Jansen, a USA TODAY White House reporter, breaks down the current federal government shutdown's implications. He discusses the House's stalled short-term funding bill and why the Senate's 60-vote rule is a gridlock problem. Public opinion is explored, highlighting potential electoral impacts. Jansen reveals key negotiation points centered around Medicaid changes and expiring Obamacare subsidies. He also brings light to Trump's threats affecting federal jobs and outlines what could reopen the government—essentially, a bipartisan compromise.
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Senate Vote Math Creates Gridlock
- The Senate requires 60 votes to move funding bills, creating a high threshold during partisan splits.
- Republicans need several Democrats to reopen the government, and a single GOP defection can block measures.
Public Blame Is Mixed And Political Impact Unclear
- Early polls show slim margins blaming Republicans slightly more, with many unsure or blaming both sides.
- Past long shutdowns didn't decisively determine elections, so political effects are uncertain more than a year out.
Health Care Is The Central Negotiation Lever
- Democrats want to restore expiring Obamacare subsidies and reverse Medicaid changes that cut benefits.
- Republicans call Medicaid changes non-starters and prefer reopening now then negotiating extensions later.