Who's in Charge Here? Republicans Clash Over Shutdown Strategy

The government shutdown is dragging on, and Republicans are starting to question their strategy. Some want President Trump to step in and negotiate with Democrats, but others are sticking to their guns, refusing to budge until the shutdown ends. Senators like Tommy Tuberville and Jim Justice believe Trump's involvement could break the deadlock. They think he has the power to make decisions that could end the stalemate. But other Republicans, like House Speaker Mike Johnson, are not so sure. They argue that negotiating with Democrats would be like paying a ransom to reopen the government. Meanwhile, Trump has been mostly hands-off, leaving the day-to-day management to Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. They've refused to negotiate with Democrats, insisting they won't give in to demands for concessions on healthcare in exchange for funding the government. This shutdown is different from past ones. Usually, both sides scramble to reach an agreement. But this time, Republican and Democratic leaders are digging in their heels, each trying to outlast the other. There are no weekend meetings or meaningful negotiations. The House hasn't even been in session for over a month. Trump recently hosted Senate Republicans at the White House, encouraging them to stay united. He predicted that Democrats would ultimately lose out politically. But some Republicans are growing impatient with the standstill. They argue that Trump may be the only one who can apply the direct pressure needed to force a resolution. Democrats have also called for Trump to re-engage with Capitol Hill, hoping to secure an extension of enhanced Obamacare subsidies. But Republican leaders have indicated no willingness to budge. They insist that the government must reopen first before any negotiations can take place. Within the White House, officials are confident in their strategy. They point to recent polling showing a shift in voter blame toward Democrats. They see the shutdown as an opportunity to make deep cuts to the federal workforce and funding for projects in Democratic states. But as the shutdown drags on, the pressure on both sides is rising. With no clear end in sight, it's anyone's guess who will blink first.