why do democrats want to shut down the government

Democrats are pushing for a shutdown mainly because they want to negotiate the extension of health care tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, reverse recent Medicaid cuts, and prevent further reductions in critical health and social programs. They have refused to support a short-term government funding bill without including these demands, viewing the fight as essential to protect healthcare access for millions and oppose policies they consider harmful fiscal cuts. This strategy, while risky, is seen by Democrats as a way to leverage their influence in the Senate where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to pass a clean funding measure. Republicans, led by President Trump, want a "clean" continuing resolution to keep funding at current levels without the Democrats' policy conditions, regarding the Democrats' demands as unrelated to immediate government funding. Trump and Republicans accuse Democrats of obstructing the funding process to push unrelated policy goals, while Democrats view the situation as defending vital programs against GOP- imposed cuts. Thus, the potential government shutdown arises from this standoff where Democrats are using their leverage to try to reverse Medicaid cuts and preserve Affordable Care Act subsidies, while Republicans insist on funding without conditions. This deadlock is leading to a likely shutdown starting October 1, 2025, if an agreement is not reached.