Speaker Johnson Accuses Schumer of Delaying Shutdown Deal for Left-Wing Rally

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R–La.) sharply criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D–N.Y.) on Friday, accusing him of deliberately extending the government shutdown to appease the Democratic Party’s far-left base. Johnson claimed Democrats are waiting until after the Oct. 18 “No Kings” rally in Washington, D.C.—an event featuring Antifa and pro-Palestinian groups—before agreeing to reopen the government.

“They have a Hate America rally scheduled for Oct. 18,” Johnson told Fox & Friends. “They can’t reopen the government until after that rally because they can’t face their rabid base.” He also alleged that House Democrats were promoting the event, adding, “I have HAD it with these people. They’re playing games with real people’s lives.”

The remarks come amid backlash to Schumer’s earlier statement, reported by Punchbowl News, where he said the shutdown was “getting better for us every day.” Schumer claimed Democrats had prepared for the political fallout, especially on the issue of restoring health care benefits for undocumented immigrants—something Republicans have firmly opposed.

The White House, led by President Donald Trump, responded swiftly. Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson accused Democrats of “gleefully inflicting pain” on Americans, while Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called Schumer’s comments “disgusting and revealing,” citing the hardships faced by workers, families, and businesses during the shutdown.

Now in its third week, the shutdown continues to disrupt federal services, with no end in sight. Schumer is also facing political pressure within his own party, as speculation grows that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez may launch a primary challenge against him in 2026. His office has pushed back, blaming Republicans for the impasse.

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