Democratic Split Grows as Funding Talks Intensify in Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Prominent Democrats are expressing frustration as talks continue on a potential deal to end a 35-day government funding deadlock. The negotiations, which involve Senate centrists, reflect a deepening divide within the party.

Sources familiar with the discussions suggest a temporary stopgap funding bill could be passed as early as this week. This agreement would reopen the government and potentially include several full-year spending bills. Some Senate leaders have proposed adding a future vote on extending billions in enhanced Obamacare subsidies to the plan.

Many Democrats have criticized this approach, arguing that a mere promise of a future vote on subsidies is inadequate, especially as the expiration of crucial health care support looms. This dissatisfaction has been intensified by recent cuts in food aid impacting families, highlighting the urgency for a resolution.

“If the Democrats cave on this, I think it would be a betrayal to millions of working families who want them to stand up and protect their health care benefits,” said Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), emphasizing the stakes involved for the party’s electoral future.

Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) echoed these sentiments, criticizing optimism around a potential agreement with Republicans. “I think we’re suckers to believe that a party that is opposed to extending the subsidies now is all of a sudden going to be supportive of that a month from now,” he said.

Democratic Senate leaders, including Chuck Schumer, have not publicly endorsed the emerging plan, though they met for three hours to discuss options. After the meeting, Senator Gary Peters of Michigan described the session as productive but failed to disclose any details about specific strategies.

As the discussions unfold, centrists like Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona acknowledged the significant differences between Democrats and Republicans on health care matters. “We want to bring down their health care costs, or at least make sure it’s what it was last year,” he stated.

Senators are divided on the potential outcomes. Some, like Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), have expressed willingness to negotiate with Republicans as long as specific protections for federal workers are included in the discussions, highlighting the broad complications involved.

Others remain cautious. “A promise ain’t good enough for me,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), insisting that without a concrete agreement, proceeding would be unwise.