Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has recently issued a warning that could lead to a government shutdown, a move reminiscent of previous internal party disputes. Just four months after a contentious standoff, Schumer’s threat to withhold Democratic votes against a proposed $9.4 billion cut to President Donald Trump’s budget has triggered concerns of renewed discontent within the Democratic Party.
Republican senators view Schumer’s assertions as mere posturing, betting that he will ultimately back down. “I don’t take it serious,” said Senator John Curtis (R-UT), a centrist Republican. He added that a “Schumer shutdown” would be easily branded and likely detrimental to Schumer’s reputation.
As the minority party, Democrats possess limited leverage, primarily relying on the 60-vote filibuster. The White House’s rescissions bill, which Senate Republicans plan to amend and pass next week, only requires a simple majority. Many Democrats accuse Republicans of instigating a funding dispute by attempting to rescind previously allocated funds for foreign aid and public broadcasting.
“It’s fundamentally changing the way the government is supposed to function,” remarked Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ). He emphasized that such actions undermine the legislative process. Schumer, addressing the Senate, highlighted the absurdity of expecting Democrats to support government funding while Republicans are willing to dismiss bipartisan agreements. “It’s unacceptable to concoct rescissions packages without the customary 60 votes,” he stated.
In March, Schumer and nine fellow Democrats allowed funding to proceed, fearing a prolonged shutdown under Republican leadership. This decision did not quell dissent within the party, leading to calls for Schumer’s resignation and a push for a more liberal challenger in the upcoming 2028 primaries.
Despite some support for Schumer’s current strategy, there is unease within the party regarding his approach. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) expressed his commitment to maintaining government operations, stating, “I refuse to ever vote for anything that would shut the government down. That’s our core responsibility.”
Congress faces a crucial deadline of September 30, 2023, to either pass the annual budget or implement a temporary funding measure to avoid a shutdown. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, downplayed Schumer’s rhetoric. She noted that during his tenure as majority leader, Schumer often opted for a single large bill rather than individual appropriations, which she believes complicates the funding process.
In recent committee meetings, progress has been made, with unanimous approvals for the Agriculture and Rural Development appropriations bill and a 26-1 vote for the Legislative Branch appropriations bill. However, discussions over the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill remain stalled, particularly concerning the relocation of the FBI headquarters.
As tensions mount, the dynamics between the two parties will be pivotal in determining whether Congress can avert a government shutdown by the looming deadline.
