Hakeem Jeffries Pushes for Bipartisan Talks to Reopen Government as GOP Critics Dismiss His Role

Washington, D.C. — House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) says he’s ready to negotiate “anytime, anyplace” to reopen the federal government, now entering its 25th day of partial shutdown.

Speaking in an interview this week, Jeffries accused Republicans and former President Donald Trump of showing “zero interest” in ending the stalemate, while warning that continued inaction could deepen what he called a “Republican health care crisis” across the country.

“Our view from the beginning—Leader Schumer, Senate Democrats, House Democrats—we’ve all made clear that we will sit down with anyone, anytime, anyplace, either at the Capitol or back at the White House to negotiate a bipartisan agreement that actually meets the needs of the American people,” Jeffries said.

The New York Democrat criticized GOP leaders for advancing what he described as “the largest cut to Medicaid in American history,” claiming it had already stripped health insurance from over 14 million Americans. He also warned of looming reductions to Medicare and the expiration of key Affordable Care Act tax credits that could send insurance premiums soaring.

“That requires decisive action,” Jeffries added. “And that’s been a consistent position Democrats have taken over the last several weeks.”

Critics Fire Back: “He Has No Power or Point”

Not everyone was moved by Jeffries’ appeal. Conservative commentators quickly dismissed his remarks as political theater, noting that the House has already passed its funding bill and that the stalemate now rests in the Senate and the White House.

One GOP strategist told Capitol Wire:

“Jeffries can talk all he wants, but he’s not in the room where this deal will actually get made. The House did its job weeks ago. He’s just trying to stay relevant.”

Political Reality: A Messaging Battle

Analysts say Jeffries’ comments reflect the broader Democratic strategy to frame the shutdown as a consequence of Republican priorities, particularly on health care and social spending. As open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act approaches, Democrats are using the moment to highlight contrasts with the GOP on health policy.

Still, with negotiations frozen and political rhetoric intensifying, few on either side see a quick path forward.

As the shutdown drags on, Jeffries’ call for bipartisan talks may be more about shaping public perception than shifting the legislative balance — a reminder that in Washington, sometimes the message is the only move left on the board.