Hopes for shutdown resolution fade after Democrats balk at GOP offer

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is attempting to persuade Democrats to agree to reopen the government amid a lengthy shutdown. However, Democrats are resistant to his latest offer.:

1. Thune's Proposal:

• Thune plans to hold a vote on a new funding bill to end the government shutdown after 38 days.

• This bill would include full-year funding for programs such as veterans' services and food aid, alongside a stopgap funding measure likely extending into January.

2. Democratic Response:

• Despite Thune’s offer, Democrats are expected to block the vote, wanting better negotiations and an extension of health insurance subsidies, which they feel have not been properly addressed.

• Senator Jacky Rosen has publicly stated she will vote against the proposal.

3. Democratic Unity and Division:

• Some Democrats claim strong unity following recent electoral wins, but underlying tensions remain between moderates who wish to end the shutdown and progressives who want more substantial healthcare provisions.

• Senator Bernie Sanders urged his colleagues to fight for a better deal for American families affected by rising healthcare costs due to the shutdown.

4. Bipartisan Discussions:

• There have been some advances in negotiations for a package to fund federal agencies through September and reopen the government temporarily.

• However, progress is stymied by a lack of a new Republican proposal regarding health care, and Thune has not been able to promise a guaranteed outcome for a compromise.

5. Uncertain Future:

• As of Thursday, no clear voting agenda was set, leading to uncertainty about what Thune will propose next. If the vote fails, further actions remain unclear.

• Some senators express hope for a resolution over the weekend, though others remain skeptical about the prospects of reaching an agreement.

Senate negotiations to end the government shutdown are complex, with significant disagreements between parties on key issues, particularly healthcare subsidies. The outcome of Thune's proposed vote remains uncertain, and internal conflicts within the Democratic caucus may prolong the stalemate. 

https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/06/shutdown-senate-democrats-reject-offer-00641573