Liz Peek on Government Shutdown: GOP Infighting Jeopardizes Deal

Government Shutdown Stalemate

• 📌 The US is on day four of a partial government shutdown, with President Trump urging lawmakers to agree on a funding deal.
• ⚠️ A test vote is expected, but House Speaker Mike Johnson faces opposition from conservative Republicans who want to include the Save Act.

The Save Act Controversy

• 🎯 The Save Act, which requires proof of US citizenship to vote, is seen by some as a non-starter for Democrats.
• 💡 Liz Peek argues that this provision belongs in a reconciliation bill that could pass with a simple majority, rather than jeopardizing the current funding deal.
• 📊 Democrats are strongly opposed to measures like purging voter rolls, which are part of the broader debate.

Economic Impact and Political Strategy

• 📉 The shutdown has already impacted economic data, with the Labor Department delaying the January jobs report.
• 📈 Federal workers remain out of work, and the Republican majority in the House is shrinking, making legislative passage more difficult.
• 🗳️ Peek suggests that the current political maneuvering is heavily influenced by upcoming midterm elections and economic growth concerns.