House Speaker Mike Johnson said Democratic leader Chuck
Schumer and his caucus plan to postpone any agreement to reopen the federal
government until after the “No Kings” rally planned for this weekend in
Washington, D.C. Johnson said the event—which he called a left-wing-driven
mobilization—would influence the opposition’s political strategy.
During his statement, the president expressed skepticism
about a quick resolution to the government crisis. "I don't think we'll
reach an agreement before Saturday's demonstration, which will be attended by
those who, in my opinion, hold a position contrary to American values: Marxist groups,
anti-fascists, and critics of former President Trump," he stated.
Johnson added that, once the rally is over, he hopes that
"some more moderate Democrats will regain their senses and resume the
willingness to engage in dialogue they have shown in the past."
These statements deepen tensions between the White House and
the Democratic leadership in Congress, amid heightened political polarization
and institutional paralysis affecting millions of citizens due to the partial
government shutdown.