washington, D.C. – Negotiations to end the 40-day partial federal government shutdown remained deadlocked Saturday as Democrats and Republicans in the Senate failed to reach an agreement, extending the closure into its second month. This marks the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
The impasse centers on disagreements over healthcare funding, specifically the Affordable Care Act (ACA), frequently enough referred to as Obamacare. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) proposed a resolution to fund the government in exchange for a one-year extension of ACA subsidies set to expire at year’s end.
Though, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) deemed the proposal ”unviable,” reiterating support for a Republican plan already passed by the House of Representatives – a plan the Senate has rejected 15 times. President Donald Trump has criticized the ACA and suggested redirecting funds directly to citizens for individual health insurance choices, a position aligning with the Republican stance.
Despite closed-door discussions between party representatives, no breakthrough was achieved. Republicans are reportedly seeking a short-term funding package through the end of the year, alongside a “clean” extension of current funding levels without significant changes.
Sen. Thune stated the Senate session would continue until a resolution is reached. The session was postponed after five hours and is scheduled to reconvene Sunday at 1:30 p.m., with the possibility of votes pending. This weekend session represents the first time senators have been in session as the shutdown began on October 1st. The upcoming Veterans Day holiday next Tuesday may further complicate scheduling.
