Washington, Oct 1: Tensions over the US government shutdown escalated on Wednesday as Vice President JD Vance, flanked by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, launched a blistering attack on Senate Democrats, accusing them of plunging the nation into crisis for political gain.
Opening the briefing, Leavitt cited a New York Times poll showing nearly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of the shutdown, which she squarely blamed on Democrats’ “partisan tactics.” Vance echoed her remarks, singling out Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer as the chief obstacle, alleging he was bowing to pressure from the party’s left wing and prioritising his own political survival amid fears of a primary challenge from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
“This is not about policy differences,” Vance said, “it’s about infighting and self-preservation.”
The Vice President dismissed Democratic proposals on healthcare for undocumented immigrants as a “ridiculous proposition,” insisting Republicans were willing to debate healthcare but not under the shadow of a shutdown. Asked how long the deadlock might last, Vance admitted uncertainty, stressing the outcome depended entirely on Senate Democrats. Still, he hinted that cracks were emerging within their ranks, suggesting a breakthrough could come sooner rather than later.
On the human cost, Vance acknowledged government workers — including military personnel — were already feeling the squeeze. If the shutdown stretched for weeks, he warned, layoffs could become “a necessary evil.” However, he rejected President Trump’s claim that affected workers would lean Democratic at the ballot box, saying the focus should remain on keeping essential services running.
Vance confirmed that he and Trump were in constant talks with lawmakers across the aisle to hammer out a deal, boasting some Democrats had already softened their stance. “We need more votes to end this impasse,” he said, urging moderates to step up.
With pressure mounting from both public opinion and economic fallout, the standoff in Washington shows no immediate sign of easing — but the Vice President’s sharp rhetoric signaled Republicans are intent on pinning the blame squarely on Democrats.