The fourth day of the federal shutdown saw Speaker Mike Johnson urging Republicans to stay united and keep pressure on Senate Democrats. During a private call Saturday, Johnson told GOP lawmakers to share their message directly with voters and explain why Democrats are blocking efforts to reopen the government.
Johnson said Republicans are winning the messaging fight and must “hold the line” for a fair deal. He added that the shutdown could end quickly if the party stayed firm. The speaker also announced that the House would not return to Washington until Senate Democrats agreed to the Republican funding plan.
The dispute centers on a short-term spending bill passed by the House on September 19. The proposal would fund the government through November 21 while keeping spending mostly flat. Senate Democrats rejected it, saying it included cuts to Medicaid and public media.
Republicans view the bill as a reasonable way to control spending. Johnson canceled next week’s planned session, calling it a “district work period,” so lawmakers could meet with constituents and avoid what he called “Democrat disruptions.”
No Republicans reportedly objected to Johnson’s decision, showing strong internal alignment. He praised his colleagues for staying disciplined and said their GOP unity was key to forcing Democrats back to negotiations.
Democratic leaders, led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, proposed an alternate plan to fund the government through October 31. Their proposal would restore Medicaid and media funding while maintaining healthcare subsidies from the pandemic. Republicans dismissed the plan as partisan and unnecessary.
The shutdown has paused several nonessential government operations, leaving agencies struggling to manage limited resources. Both parties continue to trade blame—Democrats accuse Republicans of political games, while Republicans argue Democrats are overspending.
Johnson told reporters Friday that the House had already done its job by passing the GOP bill. He said lawmakers would reconvene only when Senate Democrats agreed to reopen the government under Republican terms.
Analysts warn that prolonged gridlock could hurt both parties as voter frustration grows. Still, Johnson believes consistent communication will help his party win public support. The next few days will reveal whether leaders can end the standoff or let it drag into another week.
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