US Government Shutdown Set to Become Longest in History
The ongoing US government shutdown is poised to break records this week as it enters its 34th day with no resolution in sight. Millions face losing food assistance and healthcare subsidies while federal workers miss paychecks.
Key Takeaways
- Shutdown could become longest in US history this week
- 42 million Americans risk losing SNAP food benefits
- Federal workers, including air traffic controllers, missing paychecks
- Republicans need 5 Democratic votes to pass reopening bill
Trump: “I Won’t Be Extorted”
President Donald Trump declared he “won’t be extorted” by Democrats demanding negotiations on Affordable Care Act subsidies. In a “60 Minutes” interview, he stated he’ll only negotiate after the government reopens.
“I think they have to,” Trump said about Democratic capitulation. “And if they don’t vote, it’s their problem.”
Filibuster Fight Complicates Situation
Trump has urged Republican leaders to eliminate the Senate filibuster, claiming “If we end the filibuster, we can do exactly what we want.” However, Senate Republicans have consistently rejected this approach, viewing the 60-vote requirement as vital to the institution.
Air Travel Disruptions Worsen
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned airport delays “are only going to get worse” as air traffic controllers work without pay. Newark Airport experienced ground delays due to “staffing shortages in the control tower,” with average delays reaching 2 hours.
SNAP Benefits Crisis
The Department of Agriculture planned to withhold $8 billion in SNAP payments until federal judges ordered funding restoration. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent argued the best solution is for “five Democrats to cross the aisle and reopen the government.”
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Republicans of attempting to “weaponize hunger,” noting the administration found funding for other priorities while slow-walking SNAP benefits.
Bipartisan Talks Continue
Senator Tim Kaine revealed ongoing discussions about “a path to fix the health care debacle” and protecting federal workers. However, significant differences remain between parties on healthcare subsidies and reopening conditions.
Virginia Senator Mark Warner expressed hope the shutdown could end “this week” now that Trump has returned to Washington, noting Republicans “can’t move on anything without a Trump sign off.”
