Core Points - A confrontation over U.S. government funding is intensifying, with Democrats proposing a significant counter-proposal that increases the risk of a government shutdown on October 1 [2] - The Democratic proposal includes healthcare policy reforms, which House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated have "zero" chance of becoming law as part of the spending bill [2] - The proposal aims to repeal Medicaid cuts enacted in July and seeks to extend Obamacare tax subsidies, potentially costing hundreds of billions [2] Group 1 - The Democratic counter-proposal lists priorities that could form the basis for any future compromise plan, but no serious negotiations have taken place so far [2] - Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated that Republicans have not requested negotiations, suggesting a lack of willingness to engage [2] - The proposed temporary funding bill from Democrats would last until October 31, just before the insurance enrollment period begins [3] Group 2 - Republicans need at least seven Senate Democrats' support to pass a government funding bill, but Schumer has been firmly opposed to the Republican proposal [3] - Republican leaders have stated they do not intend to negotiate healthcare as part of the temporary funding process, viewing any significant healthcare-related proposals as unserious [3] - Concerns have been raised by Republican Senator Susan Collins about the lack of bipartisan support, with pressure from Schumer on Democrats to resist crossing party lines [3]