Schumer, Jeffries request meeting with Republican leaders to prevent US government shutdown

(MENAFN) On Monday, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries requested a meeting with Republican leaders to address the looming government shutdown deadline.

In a letter sent to Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson, they called for a “Big Four” meeting aimed at finding a bipartisan solution to secure government funding.

“We write in connection with the September 30 government funding deadline that fast approaches,” the lawmakers stated in their correspondence.

Schumer and Jeffries emphasized that the majority leaders in both chambers bear the responsibility to govern for all Americans and collaborate across party lines to prevent an unnecessary and damaging shutdown at the end of September.

However, they expressed concern that the Trump Administration and many Republicans appear poised to act independently, pushing legislation solely along partisan lines.

The two Democrats also criticized congressional Republicans for pursuing a partisan agenda and urged a return to cooperative efforts to ensure government funding.

“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,” they wrote.

As it stands, government funding is scheduled to expire on September 30, and President Donald Trump has yet to sign any of the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bills into law.

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