House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), is standing firm on his strategy to pressure Senate Democrats into ending the government shutdown, now entering its tenth day. But some Republican lawmakers are growing uneasy as the standoff drags on.
In a private call Thursday, Johnson briefed House Republicans on the state of negotiations, according to Fox News Digital. While most members backed his decision to keep the House out of session until Senate Democrats agree to vote, several raised concerns about the optics of staying away from Washington.
Reps. Jay Obernolte (R-CA), and Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), urged Johnson to reconvene next week, arguing that “it’s damaging to continue to keep the House out of session.” Johnson reiterated that lawmakers would receive 48 hours’ notice before returning but made no commitment to resume immediately.
The speaker also rejected a standalone vote to pay the military during the shutdown, calling it a Democratic ploy for “political cover.” Critics, including Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA), warned that troops could miss their Oct. 15 paychecks if the impasse continues.
Meanwhile, frustration is also brewing over Senate rules. Reps. John Rutherford (R-FL), and Tom Barrett (R-MI), questioned why Senate Republicans haven’t used the “nuclear option” to bypass Democrats and fund the government. Johnson, however, defended the Senate filibuster, warning that ending it could backfire if Democrats regain power.
The shutdown began after Senate Democrats rejected the GOP’s continuing resolution (CR) seven times. Republicans say their proposal keeps the government open through Nov. 21 and protects national priorities, while Democrats are demanding concessions on healthcare and other domestic spending.
For now, Johnson is betting that political pressure — not compromise — will force Democrats to the table.
