Trump, Schumer deadlock drags D.C. paychecks
The United States government shutdown has entered its 22nd day, making it the second-longest such event in American history. The impasse between Republicans and Democrats centers on health care subsidies set to expire, with no resolution in sight as President Donald Trump prepares for an overseas visit to Asia. Lawmakers and congressional staff members believe the shutdown could stretch into November, potentially surpassing the 35-day record set during Trump’s first presidential term.
Trump met with Senate Republicans on Tuesday and emerged with a firmer stance against Democratic proposals. Democrats want Congress to address concerns about health insurance costs for 22 million Americans before agreeing to reopen federal agencies. Trump refused their request, stating he would only meet with Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries after the government resumes operations.
Senate Republicans need eight Democratic votes to pass a temporary spending measure through November 21. Senate Republican Leader John Thune offered Democrats a future vote on Affordable Care Act subsidies, but Democrats rejected this proposal as insufficient. Federal employees face their first missed paycheck on Friday, while military payments and food assistance programs may be affected soon.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has kept Republican representatives away from Washington since September 19 and plans to maintain this arrangement through October. The White House has canceled $28 billion in federal projects in Democratic-led states and attempted widespread layoffs at several agencies. A judge temporarily halted these dismissals while courts examine their legality. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire said she sees no path forward to end the standoff.
