WASHINGTON – The federal government shutdown enters its 21st day – headed toward its fourth week – as Democrats and Republicans remain bitterly divided over how to resolve rising health care costs.
The impasse continues after widespread “No Kings” protest rallies against President Donald Trump during the weekend. Democrats continue to insist on greater health care spending – an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies and the restoration of Medicaid benefits – as a condition of reopening the government. But Republicans contend the government should reopen before health care talks begin.
The Senate failed for the 11th time Oct. 20 to approve a House-passed bill to fund the government through Nov. 21. Three Democrats have joined Republicans but the GOP needs another five Democrats to overcome a 60-vote threshold to send the legislation to Trump.
Meanwhile, the third-longest shutdown in history grinds on with workers missing paychecks, flights increasingly delayed and lower-income families threatened losing food assistance.
Here are the latest updates about the shutdown:
