Summary
The largest federal workers union in the U.S. called for Democrats to pass a Republican bill to reopen the government. This request did not receive strong support from D.C.-area Democrats, who believe they have leverage in the ongoing shutdown and expect Republicans to negotiate.
Key Facts
- The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) urged Democrats to pass a Republican bill to end the government shutdown.
- AFGE President Everett Kelley called for a "clean" stopgap funding bill.
- D.C.-area Democrats are not fully supporting this proposal despite the union's influence.
- Some Democrats believe they have an advantage and expect Republicans to negotiate on healthcare and budget cuts.
- Critics of the shutdown think it harms federal workers without effective outcomes due to ongoing workforce reductions.
- Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin acknowledged the AFGE statement's influence but maintained his stance on the shutdown.
- D.C.-area Democrats continue to hear mixed opinions but emphasize not using federal employees as political tools.
- The union remains focused on ensuring timely pay for federal employees and advocates against using them as bargaining chips.
