Republicans are finding themselves divided over their approach to the impending government shutdown, with distinct factions within the party pushing varied agendas and messaging tactics. Senate Republicans, led by Majority Leader John Thune, prefer a straightforward approach: extend government funding temporarily while continuing negotiations, accusing Democrats of making unreasonable policy demands.

On the other hand, House Republicans, under Speaker Mike Johnson, are adopting a more aggressive stance. They are focusing their message on opposing what they term the Democratic "wish list" which includes rolling back Republican measures that prevent undocumented immigrants from accessing public services.

Adding complexity to the GOP's unified front is President Donald Trump, whose recent claims have stirred controversy even among his party members. Trump has vehemently opposed the Democratic proposals, which include extending insurance subsidies under Obamacare, by tying them to taxpayer funding for transgender surgeries for minors—a point that has not only puzzled some Republicans but also alienated potential moderate allies.

The internal GOP discord was further highlighted when Trump unexpectedly canceled a planned meeting with top Democratic leaders following advice from Johnson and Thune, who believed the meeting would weaken their negotiating stance. This decision has provided Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, with additional ammunition, portraying Trump's move as a temperamental reaction rather than a strategic one.

Democrats, for their part, remain united in focusing on healthcare, specifically the extension of insurance subsidies set to expire soon, which they argue is crucial for millions of Americans. They've criticized the GOP's fragmented messages and Trump's divisive comments as signs of a party struggling to maintain coherence on policy issues.

In response to the criticism, Trump escalated his rhetoric on social media, making sweeping accusations against Democrats about their spending plans and policy priorities, which include contentious issues like immigration and healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants. These statements have further complicated the GOP's efforts to present a unified front.

As the shutdown deadline approaches, House Republican leaders are emphasizing immigration as a key issue, hoping it might unify their ranks, while Senate Republicans like John Barrasso are also touching on the topic but are more focused on procedural arguments against the Democrats' approach.

The diverging strategies and messages within the Republican Party highlight the challenges they face as they attempt to negotiate with a unified Democratic front. The outcome of these negotiations, and whether they can prevent a government shutdown, remains uncertain as both sides stand firm in their positions.