Senator John Thune Warns of Possible Government Shutdown This Fall

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has warned that a partial government shutdown could occur this autumn, blaming rising pressure from the Democratic Party’s far-left faction. In a recent interview, Thune stated that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is facing intense criticism from progressive Democrats, which may influence legislative decisions in the coming months.

Thune pointed to a March incident when Schumer received backlash for not opposing a Republican-backed budget bill aimed at avoiding a shutdown. The criticism was so fierce that Schumer had to postpone parts of his book tour. Thune argued this shows the Democrats are under growing pressure to oppose Republican efforts, especially those associated with the Trump administration.

The government must be funded annually through 12 appropriations bills or a continuing resolution, both of which can be blocked by a Senate filibuster. With only 53 Republican seats, bipartisan support is necessary. However, Schumer recently accused Republicans of undermining negotiations through rescissions and impoundments, which allow the president to withhold previously approved funds.

Thune emphasized that the Democratic Party is grappling with internal divisions, particularly as left-wing figures challenge establishment leaders. One such challenge came when Zohran Mamdani unseated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a local New York race, signaling the left’s growing influence.

“Hopefully we’ll have bipartisan cooperation,” Thune said. “But if the Democrats’ recent behavior is any clue, they’re being pushed hard by the far left to risk a shutdown.”