House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a news conference as the government shutdown entered its third week, criticizing Republicans for their silence and accusing former President Trump of trying to inflict pain on Americans. He urged bipartisan talks to resolve the impasse, emphasizing the negative impact of the shutdown on healthcare and public services. Jeffries called out Republican policies and suggested that the party would rather keep the government shut down than provide affordable healthcare. With the situation worsening, he has invited Trump to engage in negotiations rather than remain inactive. As pressure mounts, Jeffries continues to advocate for public support to extend ACA subsidies and expedite a resolution.