Other recent polls tell a similar story:
- New York Times/Siena (late Sept.): 33% blamed both sides equally, 26% blamed Trump and Republicans, 19% blamed Democrats.
- Marist/PBS/NPR (late Sept.): 38% blamed Republicans, 27% blamed Democrats, 31% blamed both parties equally.
- Morning Consult (late Sept.): 45% blamed Republicans, 32% blamed Democrats, 16% had no opinion. Independents blamed Republicans 41% to 24%.
The polling shows that while Trump and Republicans are getting the most blame, many Americans remain undecided—or frustrated by the political stalemate itself.
The Battle Over Health Care Subsidies
Negotiations hinge largely on expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, Medicaid cuts, and Trump’s insistence on certain funding priorities. Democrats want the subsidies extended, Medicaid cuts reversed, and assurances Trump won’t unilaterally block Congress-directed spending.
Republicans have said they won’t make concessions to end the shutdown without securing their priorities. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., emphasized that talks on ACA subsidies will resume—but only once the government is funded. Some GOP lawmakers want the subsidies eliminated entirely.
Polling on this issue is clear: the Washington Post found 71% of Americans favor extending the ACA subsidies, while 29% are okay letting them expire. Both sides largely support sticking to their positions even if it prolongs the shutdown.
A Stalemate With Real Consequences
With both parties dug in, federal employees face furloughs, services are disrupted, and everyday Americans are feeling the effects. The shutdown’s duration is uncertain, leaving communities and families in limbo while political leaders negotiate—or clash—over the next move.
How is the government shutdown affecting you? Are you a federal worker or someone impacted by service closures? Share your story and let us know how you’re coping.