Trump Opens Door to Health Care Negotiations Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump indicated Monday that he is open to negotiating with Democrats on health care issues central to the ongoing government shutdown. The shutdown, which entered its sixth day, has seen little bipartisanship as both parties blame each other for the impasse.

Trump remarked, “There may be a path forward” regarding health care negotiations, mentioning that “billions and billions” are wasted in the system. His comments came as the Senate prepared for yet another set of votes on funding the federal government.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on Monday that if the White House backs efforts to extend subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, it could help find common ground with Democrats. The urgency is heightened by reports of impending food aid shortages, with McConnell citing Americans who are beginning to feel the consequences of the shutdown.

Congressional leaders have expressed frustration, with House Speaker Mike Johnson stating, “There’s nothing for us to negotiate,” while House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called for immediate action on health care assistance.

Jeffries noted that notices about impending premium increases for health care plans have been sent to Americans. “That’s what people are facing right now, which is why we need to address it,” he said in a television interview.

The economic backdrop also complicates the situation, with inflation affecting American households and businesses struggling amid the shutdown. The ongoing uncertainty is particularly concerning as both parties gear up for what could be a protracted battle.

Trump has suggested that the shutdown could allow for cuts in government spending, implying job cuts in various sectors. White House press secretary pointed out that while furloughs are ongoing, the potential for layoffs remains if the shutdown persists.

Democrats argue that a resolution is needed swiftly, with Senator Adam Schiff of California warning that rising health care costs pose a crisis for many Americans. “We need both to address the health care crisis, and we need some written assurance in the law,” Schiff insisted.

Despite Trump’s willingness to engage on health care, the path to a resolution remains unclear, as both parties struggle to find common ground.