The White House and Congressional Republicans say a shutdown will “be entirely on the Democrats.”
As the United States approaches another potential government shutdown, Senate Democratic leaders have signaled they will not assist their Republican colleagues in passing a government funding bill.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Wednesday that his caucus would oppose the spending bill. Schumer criticized the bill for its partisan nature, stating that it was crafted without Democratic input and favors defense spending while cutting essential non-defense programs. He emphasized that the bill lacks the necessary support to pass in the Senate, thereby increasing the likelihood of a government shutdown.
Cool. You own the shutdown.
Congrats. https://t.co/yAyvilYl5S
— Bonchie (@bonchieredstate) March 13, 2025
The proposed funding bill, passed by the GOP controlled House earlier this week, aims to extend government funding at fiscal 2024 levels, with notable increases in military spending coupled with cuts to non-defense expenditures. This approach has been a point of contention, as Democrats argue that it undermines critical domestic programs and grants excessive control over budget allocations to the administration. Though the House of Representatives narrowly passed the bill, its fate in the Senate remains uncertain due to the filibuster rule requiring 60 votes for passage. Senate Republicans will need 8 Democrats to side with them to avoid a shutdown.
The question of whether to support the government funding bill or risk a government shutdown poses political risks for Democrats. Some fear a protracted shutdown, and a plan on how to end one could hurt Democrats’ chances of retaking either the House or the Senate in the 20206 midterms. Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat, said he will support the funding bill, saying a shutdown would “plunge the country into chaos” and “risk a recession.”
This is a wild thing to say when you’re voting for a shutdown. https://t.co/MMcsSGJqs8
— Matt Whitlock (@mattdizwhitlock) March 13, 2025
In a last-minute bid to avoid blame for a shutdown without having to fully support Republican funding efforts, Senate Democrats are floating the possibility of giving the Senate GOP the votes to pass the bill in exchange for a vote on an amendment to extend government funding for just 30 days. Senate Republicans would almost certainly reject any 30-day proposal.
Some conservative pundits are actually encouraged by the prospect of a shutdown, saying it could be an opportunity to further reduce the size of government.
A government shutdown will put Russ Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in charge. That is as close as America will ever come to having Ron Swanson in charge, and it is beautiful.
— Erick Erickson (@EWErickson) March 13, 2025
Before the Senate vote has even occurred, Senate Democrats are being painted into a corner claimed White House aides. One official told Politico they predict Schumer and Senate Dems will fold, “they’re 100 percent gonna swallow it”, meaning vote for government funding, and that “they’re totally screwed.”
Among Republicans in the Senate, only Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul has indicated he will not support the GOP funding bill. Many House Democrats have stayed in Washington after the House adjourned, saying they’re standing by “to pass a 1-month funding extension.”
The Republican leader in the Senate, Majority Leader John Thune, told reporters on Tuesday that if the shutdown occurs, it “will be entirely on the Democrats.” Thune said without the help of 8 Democrats, the country is “on the brink of a government shutdown.” Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson also said “it will be up to Senate Democrats to keep the government open.”
