“Schumer Shutdown” Backfires on Democrats, boosts Trump’s Standing

Advertisement

Disclaimer: The article may include the author's opinions.

Advertisement

Amid the ongoing government shutdown, political observers have noted that President Donald Trump’s position appears largely unaffected, despite growing Democratic frustration over the impasse. Data from CNN’s own analysis suggests that public sentiment toward Trump has remained steady, while Democrats are facing mounting pressure as the standoff continues. Political analysts pointed out that Trump’s approval ratings have not experienced any meaningful decline since the shutdown began. In fact, his standing has improved slightly, showing a resilience that contrasts sharply with the outcome of the 2018–2019 shutdown, when his ratings briefly dipped. This time, the data indicates that fewer Americans hold him responsible for the gridlock in Washington.

Public perception has shifted considerably. Surveys now show that only 48 percent of respondents attribute blame to Trump, compared with more than 60 percent who did so during his presidency’s first term shutdown. That shift, many believe, reflects growing voter awareness that it is Congress—not the executive branch—that holds the constitutional authority to pass funding legislation.

Democrats, however, have positioned themselves against any budget plan that does not extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, even as those programs approach expiration. Their refusal to negotiate has created a legislative stalemate, resulting in federal operations being suspended for weeks. Republicans, who have maintained that they already passed reasonable spending measures in the House, have argued that the current crisis lies squarely with Senate Democrats unwilling to cooperate.

The situation, though challenging for Washington, has carried unexpected benefits for the GOP. Fundraising efforts have reached record highs during the shutdown, with the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) reporting nearly $24 million raised between July and September. More than half of that total, around $14 million, was collected in September alone, signaling a surge of conservative grassroots enthusiasm.

The NRCC now reports holding approximately $46 million in cash reserves, with $93 million raised so far in 2025, its strongest position in a non-election year. Party strategists see this as evidence that voters remain energized by the Republican agenda, particularly as the party heads into the 2026 midterm cycle.

Observers within conservative circles have noted that the shutdown has, if anything, strengthened Republican resolve rather than weakened it. Supporters view Trump’s steady approval ratings and the party’s financial momentum as signs that Americans increasingly recognize where responsibility truly lies. As Washington remains locked in a political stalemate, the broader picture seems clear: Democrats may have sought to use the shutdown as a weapon against Trump, but it is the Republican Party that appears to be gaining ground from the confrontation.

Share the article to spread the truth