 "Government shutdown continues as Senate Republicans show unity with Trump")
The US government shutdown is now entering its fourth week, with limited progress toward reopening. Senate Republicans are meeting with President Donald Trump not to negotiate but to show solidarity by maintaining their refusal to agree to Democratic demands. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats continue voting against the House-passed bill to reopen the government, insisting that Republicans must engage in talks to extend key healthcare subsidies set to expire at the end of the year.
The impasse leaves hundreds of thousands of federal workers unpaid and disrupts vital federal programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children and Head Start. The National Nuclear Security Administration has furloughed 1,400 workers, and the Federal Aviation Administration reports air traffic controller shortages causing delays nationwide.
Senate Republican leader John Thune indicated Trump’s willingness to discuss subsidy extensions but only after Democrats reopen the government. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized the White House meeting as a mere “pep rally,” blaming House Speaker Mike Johnson for shutting out lawmakers during the crisis.
With no sign of compromise, lawmakers acknowledge the shutdown could prolong, risking further economic and social consequences. Republicans may propose a longer-term funding extension if no deal is reached soon. Democrats fear irreparable damage if subsidies lapse before the Affordable Care Act enrollment season begins November 1. Schumer warned that millions will face tough healthcare choices without subsidy support.
Tuesday’s White House meeting offers Republicans a chance to strategize with Trump, though his stance remains hardline. Democrats call on Trump to play a more active role, accusing him of leaving negotiations stalled while his party resists reopening the government. The deadlock continues as federal workers and vulnerable Americans bear the mounting toll.
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