Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer drew bipartisan criticism after reports emerged that, in a closed‑door meeting, he remarked, “Every day gets better for us,” referring to the ongoing government shutdown. His comment implied that the standoff over healthcare funding—specifically the dispute over $3.5 billion for emergency Medicaid services for undocumented immigrants—could politically favor Democrats. Critics accused him of politicizing a crisis affecting millions.

The shutdown began after Republicans opposed restoring Medicaid coverage for undocumented immigrants, citing fiscal concerns, while Democrats insisted on including that funding in any continuing resolution. The impasse halted broader budget negotiations and triggered a partial shutdown. The effects have been wide: federal agencies have shut down or curtailed services, many government workers have missed paychecks, and national parks and other public operations have been disrupted.

Schumer later defended himself on the Senate floor, arguing that Republicans refused to engage in negotiations and that his priority remained ending the shutdown and protecting healthcare access. His initial comment, however, prompted strong responses: Republicans accused him of callousness, Vice President Vance labeled the remark “vile,” and the White House condemned the phrasing as “disgusting.”  Some analysts viewed the comment as a strategic misstep—reflecting confidence taken the wrong way—while moderate voices in both parties urged lawmakers to refocus on governance and restoring services.