Bank of America said the Republicans’ tough line is a high-risk strategy since Mr Obama believes he is on stronger political ground. “The President is very unlikely to agree to cuts in his proudest legislative achievement. He does not have to run for office again, while they are all up for re-election next fall. Surveys show Americans strongly disapprove of the shutdown and put more blame on Republicans. Ultimately, we expect them to drop the effort to weaken the Affordable Care Act, but this could take a while,” said the bank.