As the deadline for a potential government shutdown approaches, Democrats are holding firm on health care demands, insisting that any compromise must include protections for health care funding. Party leaders argue that the Republican stance could lead to skyrocketing health care costs and a crisis for millions. Notably, Rep. Katherine Clark called for Republicans to engage in negotiations to avert the shutdown, while other Democrats stress that health care is a key issue that could swing public opinion in their favor against Trump. With tensions rising, progressive groups are urging Democrats to maintain their position, fearing that caving to GOP demands could result in significant setbacks for health care reform. Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers are accused of using the shutdown as a tactic to undermine health care subsidies, further complicating the already deadlocked situation in Congress.