Schumer Faces Democratic Backlash Amid Government Shutdown Threat

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is facing internal pressure from members of his own party as the federal government edges closer to a shutdown. According to Axios, Schumer privately floated the idea of a short-term funding bill to resolve a potential shutdown, even though he publicly criticized the same strategy. The contradiction has drawn backlash from progressive Democrats, who view his actions as politically weak and inconsistent.

Schumer had proposed a seven-to-ten-day funding extension to allow Democrats more time to negotiate key priorities, including reinstating Obamacare subsidies. However, the progressive wing of the party rejected the plan outright. Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX), chair of the House Progressive Caucus, posted on X, “Hell no. We don’t need a delay and a pinky promise to negotiate — we need a deal that keeps the government open and saves health care.”

The situation worsened as speculation grew about Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) possibly challenging Schumer in a future Senate primary. Frustration with Schumer’s leadership boiled over, with one unnamed House Democrat telling Axios, “I’m not sure why grandpa is doing this,” highlighting generational and ideological rifts within the party.

At the same time, the White House is warning of serious consequences if Democrats fail to support a stopgap bill. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said federal agencies are preparing for mass layoffs and furloughs. She accused Democrats of prioritizing political games over the needs of government workers and taxpayers.

With a Tuesday midnight deadline approaching, Congress remains deadlocked. Despite mounting pressure and the risk of a shutdown, sharp divisions persist among Democrats, casting uncertainty over whether any resolution will be reached in time.