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A government shutdown is currently in effect, with Democrats and Republicans at an impasse over spending priorities. Democrats are demanding $1.5 trillion in new spending, including healthcare benefits for illegal immigrants, which Republicans oppose.

Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries challenges Republicans to meet in public to discuss the government shutdown, emphasizing transparency.

The Republican House membership is characterized by a reluctance to negotiate with Democrats.

Speaker Mike Johnson became Speaker in October 2023 and committed to returning Congress to regular order with 12 separate appropriations bills.

Republicans accuse Democrats of holding the government hostage to push their policy agenda, arguing for a clean funding extension without additional demands.

Democrats have been hesitant to use their leverage in Congress, fearing reprisals from Trump, but the shutdown forces a debate on their terms.

The government shutdown is partly due to Democrats wanting to reverse spending cuts from a previous legislative fight, demanding $1.5 trillion in new spending.

Speaker Mike Johnson committed to returning Congress to regular order by enforcing the 12 separate appropriations bills process.

Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries challenges Republicans to meet publicly to discuss the government shutdown, emphasizing transparency.

Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries is challenging Republicans to meet publicly to discuss the government shutdown, emphasizing transparency.