WASHINGTON — The opposing partisan strategies that led to the U.S. government shutdown can’t both be winners. But both parties remain confident theirs is the strategy that will grab the public's support.

The White House and congressional Republicans remain confident they hold the upper hand tactically. They are refusing to negotiate with Democrats who are seeking to tack a renewal of expiring health insurance subsidies onto legislation that will reopen federal operations.

But Democrats also think they are winning, and polling suggests early public backing for their holdout position.

As the shutdown enters its seventh day on Tuesday, the key question remains: Which side ultimately will blink?

"People are beginning to realize this is not a Republican shutdown," House Speaker Mike Johnson

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