Republicans Still Have a Shutdown Advantage

Punchbowl News: “In 2013, Republicans shut down the government to repeal Obamacare. In 2018, Republicans shut down the government to try to get money for Trump’s border wall, even though Trump was president.”

“Both efforts failed. Shutdowns rarely work as a negotiating ploy.”

“Republicans have the luxury of a simple message this time: We’re willing to negotiate, but not with the threat of a government shutdown hanging over us. It’s the same message Democrats have employed successfully in past showdowns.”

“By contrast, Democrats have a lot of demands.”

“Even though the House Republican leadership is making what we think is a bone-headed move by keeping the chamber out of session while federal agencies run out of money, the straightforwardness of the GOP’s message is useful.”

Playbook: “The GOP is supremely confident that given the Democrats are the party rejecting a clean, short-term funding bill, they will ultimately be blamed by the public.”