As the government shutdown enters its eleventh day, New York Republicans are stepping up pressure on Democratic senators. Consequently, they are urging immediate action to protect federal employees, including military personnel.
House Republicans, led by Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., consequently sent a letter to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. In the letter, they argued that the senators’ opposition to the GOP-backed funding bill is “radical and harmful” to New Yorkers.
Meanwhile, the House passed a continuing resolution (CR) on September 19. This measure maintains federal spending at fiscal year 2025 levels through November 21. Importantly, the CR contains no policy riders, cuts, or gimmicks. Its primary purpose is to keep the government open while Congress negotiates twelve long-term appropriations bills.
The CR has failed in the Senate seven times. Current tallies show five more Democrats must cross the aisle to overcome the filibuster. Without action, thousands of federal workers, including military and law enforcement personnel, may miss paychecks.
House Republicans said Schumer and Gillibrand previously supported clean CRs to prevent shutdowns. They accused the senators of reversing course to oppose President Trump and congressional Republicans. They called the move a “disservice to our nation and our institutions.”
Schumer responded by urging House Republicans to negotiate a fair deal. He emphasized the need to address healthcare concerns, including extending COVID-era Obamacare subsidies set to expire at year’s end. Democrats warned failing to act could raise health premiums for millions of Americans.
Political analysts said the dispute shows the difficulty of balancing federal funding with partisan priorities. They noted the shutdown highlights how political disagreements directly impact public services and federal workers’ livelihoods.
Looking ahead, negotiations will intensify as lawmakers weigh healthcare policy, federal funding, and potential compromises. Both parties face rising public pressure to end the shutdown and ensure federal workers are paid on time.
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