Democrats Face Growing Pressure Amid Shutdown Threat

Senator John Thune at DakotaFest forum

Senate Democrats have faced pressure to collaborate in securing 60 votes regarding government funding ahead of a late September deadline. Bipartisan unity is necessary to avoid a partial shutdown, and Sen. Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) has questioned Democrats' ability to manage political fallout if they choose to obstruct the process. He warned that Democratic lawmakers may alienate voters by aligning too closely with the interests of progressive leaders.

Senator Thune speaks after reelection win

Thune stated, “If you have the White House and the House on board with a funding resolution — and Senate Republicans — and the only thing standing between us and a government shutdown is the Senate Democrats, that I think puts them in a position where it’s very, very hard for them to defend.”

Senator Fetterman returns after hospitalization

Thune suggested Democrats may see the risks of a shutdown, noting Sen. John Fetterman’s (D-PA) reluctance to back such tactics. Senate Democrats are largely pushing for a tougher approach toward Republicans.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse at Judiciary hearing

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) said, “Frankly, a lot of our approval rating problems are from Democrats dissatisfied with our level of fight.” He added, “I think that’s probably because we have not been showing the fight they expect.”

Senator Whitehouse at housing complex ceremony

Some Democratic lawmakers have suggested that a shutdown could signal dissent if the White House continues pursuing funding cuts. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) previously drew backlash from progressives after backing a GOP-supported spending bill in an effort to avoid a shutdown.

Senator Thune speaks after becoming majority leader

Thune has sought to restore regular order in appropriations, contrasting with previous Democratic approaches. He emphasized bipartisan cooperation and suggested that a stopgap measure may be needed to keep the government running.

Senator Thune discusses resolution on Israel

Thune said, “I think there’s a real value to doing this the old fashioned way.” He added, “But at some point we’re going to have to fund the government.”

Sen. Steve Daines at Republican National Convention

Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) said, “We are all about moving forward with regular order.” Daines added, “It was Schumer that was obstructing last time. And if things shut down, he’ll own it.”

Sen. Markwayne Mullin at Senate Committee meeting

GOP leaders like Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) have claimed it's up to Senate Democrats to prevent the looming shutdown. Mullin said, “The issue is — does Chuck Schumer want to shut down the government over his hatred toward the president, because that’s really what it comes down to.”

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.