Schumer, Jeffries Seek Meeting to Prevent Shutdown

(MENAFN) In a formal letter sent Monday, US Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries called for an immediate meeting with top Republican figures to address the looming government funding deadline.

The appeal comes amid rising concerns about a potential government shutdown if no agreement is reached before September 30.

In their letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson, the Democratic leaders urged the convening of a "Big Four" meeting to explore a cross-party solution to fund federal operations.

They wrote, “We write in connection with the September 30 government funding deadline that fast approaches,” underlining the urgency of the matter.

Schumer and Jeffries emphasized that it is the duty of the House and Senate majority leaders to “govern for all Americans” and seek bipartisan cooperation to prevent a “painful, unnecessary shutdown at the end of September.”

The Democrats expressed concern that the “Trump Administration and many within your party are preparing to ‘go it alone’ and continue to legislate on a solely Republican basis,” signaling fears that partisan decision-making could derail compromise.

They also accused congressional Republicans of pushing a narrow, partisan agenda and called for a shift back to collaborative governance to secure federal funding.

In closing, the lawmakers urged, “We request you swiftly convene a so-called Big Four meeting this week, for the four of us to discuss the government funding deadline and the health care crisis you have visited upon the American people. We anticipate your prompt reply.”

MENAFN05082025000045017167ID1109885567