House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries challenged Speaker Mike Johnson to a floor debate Monday over the ongoing government shutdown, which has extended into a second week.

Jeffries argued the debate would provide transparency and allow Johnson to explain the Republican “my way or the highway” approach, as Democratic votes are needed to end the impasse.

Johnson rejected the challenge, calling it “nonsense” and saying the proper time for debate was during consideration of last month’s seven-week continuing resolution.

This is not Jeffries’ first attempt to engage Johnson in a direct debate, having made a similar request in April over a GOP policy bill, Politico has reported.

The House remains in recess this week as Republicans pressure Senate Democrats, while Jeffries plans a virtual meeting with his members but has not indicated a return to Washington.