House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries' challenge for a live debate on the ongoing government shutdown, now in its second week. Johnson stated the House has fulfilled its duty and rejected the debate as "theatrics." The impasse stems from Senate Democrats' demand for extended healthcare subsidies, which Republicans oppose. Jeffries accused Republicans of risking a healthcare crisis and criticized Congress for taking a recess during the shutdown.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.