To respond to their tactic with debate validates their position. It makes their tactic seem normal and acceptable. First, let go of your headlock, then we’ll talk. And if you can’t get anything done after that, then a) your ridiculous shut-the-government-down-and-hope-they-say-uncle strategy wasn’t going to work, anyway and b) again, that’s how democracy works. Continue the debate and, if the American people agree with you, you’ll have your chance to change it.