Government Shutdown Continues as Democrats and Republicans Remain Stalemated

WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal government remains closed as Democrats and Republicans struggle to reach an agreement, marking one week since the shutdown began. President Donald Trump claims layoffs are occurring and blames Democrats for the deadlock.

During a press conference on Sunday, Trump told reporters, “It’s taking place right now and it’s all because of the Democrats.” He refused to specify which agencies would be impacted by the layoffs. The standoff has exacerbated tensions in Washington, with both parties waiting for the other to yield.

Democrats, led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, demand that any funding agreement extend health care subsidies for millions, while Republicans insist on separating funding from health policy negotiations. This gridlock leaves many federal employees, some facing layoffs, uncertain about their futures.

On October 3, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced the House would not hold votes next week, delaying discussions on the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. Additionally, new House member Adelita Grijalva will not be sworn in until later, which further complicates potential voting dynamics.

Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska criticized the Trump administration’s cuts to health programs in predominantly blue states, stating, “We shouldn’t be targeting different areas…This is already stressful enough.” Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that Trump’s earlier promise to mandate insurance companies cover IVF services remains unfulfilled, a sign of lingering health care issues.

In an unusual twist, several federal agencies have begun to use political rhetoric during the shutdown, attributing blame to Dems. Veterans Affairs newsletters, along with updates from the Small Business Administration, pointed fingers at the “radical left,” which critics say undermines the nonpartisan nature of government agencies.

Leading Democrats have expressed frustration with the lack of communication from Republican leaders. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries claimed there have been no talks since the last White House meeting. In an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Jeffries remarked, “Unfortunately, since that point in time, Republicans have gone radio silent.”

Amid public frustration, polls indicate a growing belief that Trump bears significant responsibility for the shutdown. A poll conducted before the shutdown revealed more voters blamed Trump and the Republican Congress than the Democrats.

As pressure mounts from both the public and his party, it remains uncertain how long this shutdown will last and who will ultimately bear the brunt of the blame.