Who’s Winning the Blame Game? New Poll Reveals Americans Fault Both Parties for Shutdown

Americans Spread the Blame

As the federal government shutdown drags into its third week, a new AP-NORC poll shows Americans aren’t letting anyone off the hook. Roughly six in ten respondents say President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans bear “a great deal” or “quite a bit” of responsibility. But Democrats aren’t spared either—54% say they share substantial blame. In total, three-quarters of Americans believe all major players deserve at least part of the blame.

A Crisis Felt Nationwide

The poll highlights growing frustration as the shutdown’s effects ripple across the country—federal workers missing paychecks, flight delays, and mounting uncertainty. More than half of Americans now call the shutdown a “major issue,” including 69% of Democrats, 59% of independents, and 37% of Republicans. The White House has warned the impact could soon surpass that of the record 35-day shutdown during Trump’s first term.

Health Care at the Center of the Standoff

At the heart of the impasse is a fight over extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that help millions afford insurance. Democrats insist on renewing them before reopening the government, while Republicans refuse to negotiate until funding bills pass. Despite partisan divides, many Americans—including some Republicans—support continuing the subsidies to keep premiums stable.

No Political Winner Yet

Neither party appears to be benefiting politically. Only about 30% of Americans view Democrats favorably, and 40% view Republicans the same—virtually unchanged from last month. Confidence in Congress remains abysmally low. Still, Democrats may find a long-term advantage: 38% of Americans trust them more to handle health care, compared to just 25% for Republicans.