Schumer shutdown updates






  • The X post by Senate Majority Leader John Thune references a 2013 CNN interview where then-Senator Chuck Schumer criticized the use of government shutdowns as leverage, stating, "I will not negotiate under hostage conditions," a stance Thune contrasts with current Democrat actions during the 2025 shutdown, highlighting perceived hypocrisy.
  • This 2013 interview occurred during a 16-day government shutdown under President Obama, where Schumer opposed Republican demands to defund the Affordable Care Act, leading to a prolonged shutdown.
  • The juxtaposition of Schumer's past and present positions underscores a recurring theme in U.S. politics where both parties have historically used or opposed shutdowns as tactical tools.
The 2013 government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2013, and ended on October 17, 2013, was resolved through a bipartisan agreement that temporarily funded the government and raised the debt ceiling. Here's a detailed breakdown of the outcome and how it was achieved:
  • End of the shutdown: The shutdown ended on October 17, 2013, after 16 days, when Congress passed a bill to reopen the government and extend the debt ceiling.
  • Funding extension: The legislation funded the government through January 15, 2014, providing a temporary reprieve until a longer-term budget could be negotiated.
  • Debt ceiling Increase: The bill also suspended the debt ceiling until February 7, 2014, preventing a potential default on U.S. debt obligations.
  • No policy concessions: The resolution did not include any policy concessions from Democrats on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare).

Now that the shoe is on the other foot . . . Democrats say "concessions for me but not for thee".
 
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