The government shutdown crisis entered its 15th day on Wednesday as President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans faced a historic funding deadlock. Trump announced he will release a list of Democratic programs slated for permanent closure on October 17. Meanwhile, the White House Office of Management and Budget said it is preparing for additional layoffs.
Democrats continue demanding increased healthcare funding. They also want to reverse Medicaid cuts and extend Affordable Care Act tax credits. These disagreements have deepened the partisan divide, making a swift resolution unlikely.
The Senate scheduled a vote at 2:15 p.m. to reopen the government through November 21. The last vote failed 49-45, with six senators absent. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the proposal still needs five more votes to reach the 60-vote threshold. Senator Rand Paul opposed the measure.
Trump defended his approach, stating that closing certain Democratic programs applies pressure on Congress while advancing Republican priorities. “We are closing up Democrat programs that we disagree with, and they’re never going to open again,” he said. He added that the shutdown allows actions “we’ve never been able to do before.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson stressed that Republicans included no special provisions in the continuing resolution. He said healthcare negotiations could occur after the government reopens. “We’re not playing games. They’re playing a game,” Johnson said. In contrast, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized Democrats’ commitment to a bipartisan solution that meets Americans’ needs.
The White House Office of Management and Budget confirmed that essential workers, including troops and law enforcement, will continue to receive pay. However, furloughs and reductions in force will persist. Analysts warn that the ongoing government shutdown crisis could harm economic stability and public confidence if it continues.
The 35-day shutdown in 2018-2019 could soon be surpassed if negotiations remain stalled. For now, the government shutdown crisis highlights deep partisan conflict and the difficulty of managing federal operations.
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