The 36-day U.S. government shutdown, now the longest ever, has left millions without pay or aid as President Trump demands an end to the Senate filibuster and negotiations stall over health care funding.
WASHINGTON — The U.S. government shutdown has entered its 36th day, officially becoming the longest in history, as millions of Americans face disruptions in federal programs, flight delays, and missed paychecks.
According to AP reporting, President Donald Trump has refused to negotiate with Democrats on health insurance subsidy renewals until they agree to reopen the government. He blamed the shutdown for recent Republican election losses and urged his party to end the Senate filibuster, calling it “time for Republicans to do what they have to do.”
Republican senators have rejected the demand, but a bipartisan group is seeking ways to end the stalemate. Senate Majority Leader John Thune described the situation as “the most severe shutdown on record,” warning that “shutdowns are stupid.”
Meanwhile, millions face soaring health care costs as federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans near expiration. Talks continue among key senators to pass a smaller bipartisan funding package for agriculture and military projects, but major divisions remain.