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Washington-Government shutdown record breaks 36 days, setting a grim milestone as millions of Americans face delayed paychecks, cut programs, and rising frustration. President Donald Trump remains firm on his demand that Democrats agree to health insurance subsidy reforms before reopening the government.
Democrats, however, doubt Trump’s commitment, especially after his administration limited SNAP food aid despite court rulings to maintain benefits. “We must get the government back open soon,” Trump said during a White House meeting with Republican senators, urging them to end the Senate filibuster to push through funding bills.
Trump Pushes GOP to End Filibuster
Trump’s call to eliminate the 60-vote Senate rule has met strong resistance within his party. Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, but Democrats have successfully blocked repeated GOP attempts to pass funding measures. “It’s time for Republicans to do what they have to do,” Trump said, calling the filibuster a roadblock to progress.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune labeled this the “most severe shutdown on record,” urging Democrats to compromise. He emphasized that no side benefits politically from prolonged gridlock. “Shutdowns are stupid,” Thune stated bluntly.
Senators Seek a Path Forward
Talks between centrist senators from both parties have intensified. Lawmakers aim to approve a smaller bipartisan package funding agriculture, military construction, and other essential programs. “The pace of talks has increased,” said Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich.
Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., added, “That three-bill package can do a lot of good for the American people.” Still, deeper divisions over health care funding remain a major obstacle.
Health Care Costs Soar as Subsidies Expire
Millions of Americans are now receiving shocking premium increases as pandemic-era health insurance subsidies near expiration. Without renewed federal support, many could lose affordable coverage.
Republicans want to modify the Affordable Care Act subsidies, while Democrats push to extend them unchanged. Thune has offered Democrats a guaranteed vote on their preferred proposal once the government reopens, but some senators remain skeptical of Trump’s long-term intentions.
As the government shutdown record breaks 36 days, the economic and political fallout continues to grow, testing Washington’s ability to govern effectively.
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