WASHINGTON — The U.S. government is shut down, and early polls show Americans are pointing fingers primarily at President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans. But uncertainty remains, with a significant number of voters unsure who to hold accountable as negotiations drag on.
The shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 1 after Congress and the White House failed to reach a deal to fund government operations. Republicans control the White House and both chambers of Congress but need 60 votes in the Senate to pass a funding bill—they hold only 53 seats, meaning Democratic support is essential.
Polls Reveal Who Americans Blame
A Washington Post poll conducted on the first day of the shutdown found:
- 47% blame Trump and Republicans in Congress
- 30% blame Democrats
- 23% are unsure
Among independents, the divide was even sharper: 50% blamed Republicans, 22% blamed Democrats. Surprisingly, a third of Republicans either blamed their own party (8%) or were unsure (25%).
Continue reading on next page…