Thune Urges Democrats to Moderate Health Care Demands to Avert Government Shutdown

With a government funding deadline approaching, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has urged Democrats to moderate their health care demands to prevent a shutdown. Thune described the Democratic position as "unserious" and emphasized the need for compromise. He stated that Democrats must "dial back" their demands, which include extending health insurance subsidies and reversing health care policies from the recent tax bill. Without such adjustments, Thune warned, "we're probably plunging forward toward the shutdown."

Democrats have insisted on including health care provisions in any funding legislation, such as extending Affordable Care Act tax credits set to expire at the end of the year. They have also criticized Medicaid cuts introduced in the "One Big Beautiful Bill" and seek their reversal. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer labeled a recent White House memo suggesting potential layoffs as an "attempt at intimidation," predicting that any such firings would be overturned in court or reversed by the administration.

Thune suggested that a short-term funding bill could be a solution, allowing more time for negotiations. He noted that Republicans would need support from at least seven Democrats to pass such a measure in the Senate. Thune expressed hope that "cooler heads will prevail," emphasizing that shutdowns do not benefit anyone, especially the American people.