The Shutdown – Day 10: GOP and Dem Leaders Provide Statements

C-SPAN: Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) held a press conference on day 10 of a government shutdown. They urged five Democrats to “have a backbone” and help pass the continuing resolution to open up the government. When asked about talking with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (NY) over the next few days, Leader Thune said, ” I think Leader Schumer is checked out…I think this is going to happen organically with enough reasonable Senate Democrats who care enough about doing the right thing for their country…” In addition, they answered reporters’ questions on potentially removing the Senate filibuster option and passing bills through a simple majority, military pay, health care tax credits, and reducing government spending.

C-SPAN: House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) spoke to reporters on day 10 of a government shutdown. He reiterated his party’s messaging from previous days, criticizing Republicans for shutting the government down and refusing to negotiate on Affordable Care Act subsidies. “Republicans have zero credibility on the issue of health care,” Jeffries said. He added Democrats will continue to show up despite House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) keeping the chamber out of session. “Get off the golf course, come back from vacation,” he said.