President Obama and House Speaker John Boehner continue to trade barbs in the impasse over the Republican shutdown of the federal government. Speaking at the White House, Obama said he would not negotiate with Republicans until they reopen the government and allow a vote on raising the nation's debt limit. Obama accused Republicans of "extortion" in their bid to delay or repeal Obamacare. In his comments, President Obama signaled a willingness to accept a short-term deal on government funding and raising the debt ceiling, followed by more far-reaching negotiations. House Republicans say they may advance a short-term bill on raising the borrowing limit to free up talks that would target spending on social programs. Responding to Obama, House Speaker John Boehner insisted that a negotiation will take place. With the government shutdown in its second week, the United States is now just eight days from the deadline to raise the borrowing limit or face a default on its debts. The looming deadline could threaten Social Security payments. The Social Security Administration has begun warning recipients that "failure to raise the debt ceiling puts Social Security benefits at risk."

Barack Obama House Of Representatives John Boehner Nancy Pelosi Senate