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Brett Guthrie

Image for Rep. Brett Guthrie suggests GOP won't blink first in government shutdown stalemate over health care

Rep. Brett Guthrie suggests GOP won't blink first in government shutdown stalemate over health care

WKU Public Radio | The Public Radio Service of Western Kentucky University · October 30, 2025

U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie is suggesting his party won't budge in the ongoing government shutdown. That’s despite hearing directly from those affected by the impasse, centered around health care.

The Bowling Green Republican held a round table Wednesday in Radcliff near the Ft. Knox Army post and fielded concerns from those in the military, government, and nonprofits, about the strain they’re feeling as SNAP benefits are set to expire on Saturday and service member pay likely running out by mid-November.

Starting Nov. 1, Kentuckians who purchase health insurance on the individual market are likely to be hit with sticker shock as open enrollment begins to select 2026 coverage plans.

Guthrie said he’s open to debating an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits–something Congressional Democrats are demanding– but he says the government should reopen first.

“November 1 is Saturday. Open the government today and let’s start negotiating," Guthrie told reporters. "We’re not gonna get…