Pragmatism on shutdown was not weakness

Democrats are wringing their hands over the deal struck to reopen the government. They have, once again, confused pragmatism for weakness. Before passing judgment on the deal, Democrats have to be clear on two things: First, Republicans were never — ever — going to abandon their position on health care subsidies. Second, Republicans benefit by keeping the government shut.

Democrats could never “win” the shutdown. The recent election was evidence that the shutdown hurt Republicans, but with that point made, it was time to move on and start the process of governing again.

The Democratic senators who chose to vote with Republicans didn’t get all that Democrats wanted, but ending the shutdown after the Republican election debacle allowed Democrats to gain some very significant concessions: SNAP benefits will continue for a full year, firings and layoffs in the federal government are to be reversed and back pay for furloughed federal employees is ensured. Most importantly, the government is back at work. The Republican government “in action” will, unfortunately, not help Americans. But at least we may finally see the Epstein files.

Democrats began this fight from a no-win position. It would be unconscionable to continue this shutdown simply to appear tough while placing the burden of the fight squarely on the shoulders of the poorest among us who can least afford to continue to lose. The fight over affordable health care must and will continue. If Republicans choose to not address health care subsidies and see to other citizens’ needs, it will continue to eat away at their popularity. To sacrifice the needy now without a chance for victory, Democrats would simply be acting like Republicans — choosing adherence to principle over helping people. This is not the path to victory that I, as a Democrat, am willing to follow.

James M. Wisniewski

Roselle