DCCC Launches Ads Pressuring Republicans Amid Government Shutdown

House Democrats, through the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), have launched a series of targeted digital ads blaming Republicans for the ongoing 2025 government shutdown and emphasizing Democrats as defenders of affordable healthcare. The ads focus on 13 key districts, including ones held by Republicans and Democrats, where control of the House could be contested in the 2026 midterms. Democrats are tying their refusal to support a funding bill to the lack of extension of enhanced Obamacare subsidies, originally increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and set to expire, warning that millions could face higher premiums if subsidies lapse. Republicans counter that they are open to negotiating healthcare subsidies later and accuse Democrats of jeopardizing funding critical to military paychecks, veterans, farmers, and small businesses. The DCCC’s campaign highlights public polling showing a majority blame Republicans for the shutdown and accuses vulnerable House Republicans of ignoring the healthcare crisis they helped create. Meanwhile, lawmakers have adjourned after multiple failed attempts by the Senate to pass a GOP-led continuing resolution to fund the government through November 21, with the standoff continuing to affect federal operations and political negotiations.