The shutdown stalemate deepens as the U.S. government entered its 40th day on Sunday with no resolution in sight. Senators remained in Washington through an exhausting weekend, trying to craft a compromise that could reopen federal operations and reduce growing nationwide disruptions.
Lawmakers worked late hours but made little progress. Republican leaders introduced a short-term funding plan that would reopen the government until January while approving full-year budgets for selected agencies. Democrats, however, insisted that any deal must include an extension of Affordable Care Act health care subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the chamber was “only a handful of votes away” from advancing the proposal. Yet Democratic senators maintained their opposition, saying the measure failed to secure affordable health coverage for millions of citizens. The shutdown stalemate deepens as negotiations remain gridlocked over this key issue.
Republicans rejected the direct subsidy extension but showed interest in a compromise from moderate Democrats. That proposal would reopen the government now and schedule a later vote on health care subsidies. Some viewed this as a practical path forward, though many doubted it could pass both chambers.
Senator Bernie Sanders criticized the compromise, calling it empty without commitments from House Speaker Mike Johnson or President Donald Trump. He warned that health care premiums could double next year if Congress fails to act.
President Trump continued urging Republicans to eliminate the Senate filibuster rule to pass funding with a simple majority. He also opposed expanding Affordable Care Act benefits, reducing chances of bipartisan agreement. Johnson supported that stance, confirming he would not commit to a health care vote.
Meanwhile, the shutdown has grounded flights, delayed food aid programs, and left thousands of federal employees unpaid. Economists estimate that each additional week could cost billions in lost productivity and consumer spending.
Despite growing frustration, senators pledged to keep negotiating. The shutdown stalemate deepens as both parties face pressure to reach a deal before the economic and political fallout worsens across the nation.
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