Story perspectives

Poll Shows Blame for Shutdown Shifting, Compromise Preferred

10/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

A YouGov/The Economist poll shows the blame for the government shutdown is narrowing, with 39% blaming Republicans and 33% blaming Democrats.
The margin has declined from last week's 41% to 30%.
Sixty-four percent of respondents favor compromise to resolve the budget impasse.
Seventy-one percent believe unpaid federal workers should receive back pay after the shutdown ends.
Forty percent approve of President Donald Trump’s performance, up slightly from last week.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown lasted 16 days, from October 1 to October 17, due to a standoff over the Affordable Care Act between President Barack Obama and Congressional Republicans. Approximately 800,000 federal workers were furloughed, highlighting the consequences of political gridlock. This event reflects ongoing challenges in U.S. governance, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation to avoid future disruptions.

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Story summary

A YouGov/The Economist poll shows the blame for the government shutdown is narrowing, with 39% blaming Republicans and 33% blaming Democrats.
The margin has declined from last week's 41% to 30%.
Sixty-four percent of respondents favor compromise to resolve the budget impasse.
Seventy-one percent believe unpaid federal workers should receive back pay after the shutdown ends.
Forty percent approve of President Donald Trump’s performance, up slightly from last week.

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