Trump’s Tactics and the Impending Government Shutdown

Former President Donald Trump has a reputation for avoiding tough situations, and recent political events continue to highlight this tendency. When the government shutdown occurred, polls indicated that the American public largely blamed Republicans, including Trump, for the deadlock. In response, Democrats have proposed an exit strategy for Republicans: extend the expiration of Obamacare subsidies that are due to end at year’s end.

Meanwhile, Trump has mostly stayed out of public view, engaging only in select interviews with conservative outlets and posting on social media. Despite his tough rhetoric online, the White House’s strategy of punishing Democratic-led states by withholding funding appears ineffective; rather than compel concessions, it has only encouraged Democrats to resist more firmly.

The Wall Street Journal reports that behind closed doors, advisers at the White House are concerned about the political fallout. They worry that the GOP might be blamed for allowing healthcare subsidies to lapse, which could increase costs for millions as midterm elections approach. Discussions are underway about extending these subsidies; however, President Trump has yet to decide whether to support such a move.

In contrast to the public bravado, aides are privately deliberating potential solutions. The WSJ also notes that most of the districts heavily dependent on ACA plans lean Republican—out of 75 such districts, 62 are GOP-leaning—implying that the political landscape is complex and fraught with consequences for all involved.