Senate Minority Whip John Thune is warning that Majority Leader Chuck Schumer may bow to pressure from far-left Democrats, risking a government shutdown in the coming weeks. Thune argues that progressive demands for massive new spending and policy concessions could derail ongoing negotiations to keep the government funded past the September deadline.
Speaking to reporters, Thune noted that Schumer faces mounting internal pressure from the progressive wing of his party, which is pushing for increased climate funding, expanded social welfare programs, and immigration measures that Republicans strongly oppose. Thune emphasized that Republicans are willing to negotiate responsible funding levels but will not agree to what he described as “radical wish lists” from the far-left.
The looming standoff reflects broader tensions within the Democratic Party. Moderates are urging Schumer to avoid a shutdown and strike a deal, while progressives see the funding deadline as leverage to extract policy victories. Thune suggested that Schumer may sacrifice bipartisan cooperation in favor of appeasing activists and left-wing lawmakers, which could lead to a budget impasse.
Thune warned that any shutdown would fall squarely on Democratic leadership. He stressed that conservatives want a clean funding resolution focused on national security, border enforcement, and fiscal restraint.
If negotiations fail, the government could face a partial shutdown affecting federal workers and key agencies. Conservative lawmakers argue that this risk underscores the need for stronger GOP leadership in 2025 to rein in spending and resist the growing influence of the far-left in Washington.
