Context:

As the U.S. government shutdown enters its second month, polls reveal that Americans predominantly blame Republicans, with 52% attributing responsibility to the president or his party, compared to 42% blaming Democrats. This political impasse has led to significant economic repercussions, including the suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, affecting over 40 million individuals. As public concern mounts, with over 75% of voters anxious about the shutdown, Democrats are gaining momentum ahead of the 2026 midterms, currently leading Republicans by 8 percentage points in voter preference. The Senate is set to reconvene to address a funding bill that has repeatedly failed. The ongoing standoff poses serious implications for the political landscape and the upcoming elections.

Dive Deeper:

• The government shutdown has resulted in the furlough of at least 670,000 federal employees, while approximately 730,000 continue to work without pay.

• Polling by ABC News and The Washington Post indicates that 43% of voters are 'very concerned' about the shutdown, highlighting a growing public anxiety about its impact.

• The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the shutdown will cost the U.S. economy between $7 billion and $14 billion.

• Polling data shows that voter enthusiasm for the 2026 midterm elections is already high, with 66% of voters expressing significant interest, comparable to pre-midterm levels.

• Historically, Democrats held a similar lead in polling before they regained control of the House in the 2018 midterms, winning 40 seats.

• Governor Gavin Newsom stated that a Democratic win in the House could mark the end of the Trump presidency as it currently exists.

• The Senate will reconvene on November 3 to vote on a funding bill, which has already faced 13 failed attempts.