Senate Democrats Block 13th GOP Attempt to End 28-Day Shutdown
URGENT UPDATE: Senate Democrats have just blocked Republicans’ 13th attempt to end the ongoing government shutdown, now entering its 28th day. This critical impasse comes as federal workers face missed paychecks and essential services remain disrupted.
On October 17, 2023, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., sought to advance the House-passed continuing resolution, but was thwarted once again by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and the Democratic caucus. The failure to reopen the government today is hitting hard, with air traffic controllers missing their first payday. The military is set to miss its first full payday on October 20, and a looming cliff for federal nutrition benefits is approaching this Saturday.
“There’s not a high level of interest in doing carve-outs or so-called rifle shots,” Thune stated. Republicans are exploring one-off bills to fund military personnel and critical services, but their future remains uncertain. The party will discuss these potential measures during their closed-door lunch later today, attended by Vice President JD Vance.
Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, expressed hope that his bill to pay air traffic controllers might still get a vote. Meanwhile, Senator Ron Johnson, R-Wis., is attempting to revive his legislation to compensate federal workers and military personnel. Despite making concessions to Democrats, he remains skeptical about its passage.
“Let’s stop punishing federal employees because of our dysfunction,” Johnson said, highlighting the human impact of the shutdown.
As the political standoff continues, Schumer has criticized Republicans for bringing the same bill to the floor without addressing key Democratic demands, particularly for lowering healthcare costs through extending Obamacare subsidies. “This is a partisan bill that does nothing to solve the Obamacare crisis,” Schumer asserted.
With deadlines looming, the urgency for a resolution is intensifying. The Senate will reconvene soon to discuss potential pathways forward, but with bipartisan agreement seeming far off, the shutdown’s effects are taking a toll on millions.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Congress to see if they can break this deadlock and provide relief for federal workers and critical services. Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
