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Congressional Democrats are prepared to sustain a government shutdown for weeks, prioritizing healthcare demands over missed military paychecks. They aim to leverage rising healthcare premiums to pressure Republicans into conceding on Affordable Care Act subsidies. Despite concerns, party leaders express confidence in holding firm, believing public pressure will mount as premium increase notices reach constituents. Democrats are launching messaging campaigns highlighting the issue, anticipating that constituents' growing financial burdens will force a resolution.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.