The BareStory
A partial U.S. government shutdown is set to become the longest in the nation’s history after the Senate on Tuesday failed to advance a funding bill. The shutdown reached its 35th day, matching a record set in 2018-2019. The procedural vote on a House-passed continuing resolution was 54-44, falling short of the 60 votes required to proceed. It marked the 14th time the Senate has failed to pass such a measure.
The legislative impasse continues amid partisan disputes. According to one summary, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Democratic caucus have conditioned reopening the government on reaching a deal for expiring healthcare subsidies. Schumer reportedly blamed Republicans and the president for rising healthcare premiums. In response, Senate Majority Leader John Thune was said to have blamed Democrats for the shutdown’s impact, stating that Republicans had offered alternatives, including a guaranteed vote on subsidies after the government reopens. President Trump has stated he will only meet with Democratic leaders after funding is restored and has called on Republicans to eliminate the 60-vote threshold, according to one summary.
The shutdown has had tangible effects on government services and travel. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that staff shortages could force the closure of "certain parts of the airspace" next week, potentially causing mass flight cancellations. An increase in sick calls among unpaid air traffic controllers has already led to flight delays at major airports. There were also conflicting reports on food assistance; a social media post from President Trump indicated SNAP benefits would be paid only when the government reopens, while the USDA reportedly told a federal court it would use a contingency fund to pay 50% of November benefits.
Despite the failed vote, some lawmakers indicated a resolution may be possible this week, with reports of increased bipartisan talks. Legislators are reportedly discussing extending the funding deadline, which was set for November 21 in the defeated bill, to December or January to allow more time for negotiations. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the House would vote on any measure that passes the Senate.
How it may affect me
As a U.S. reader:
• Air travel may face widespread delays and cancellations. Staff shortages among unpaid air traffic controllers could even lead to closures of some U.S. airspace.
• The availability of SNAP food assistance is unclear. Reports conflict on whether benefits will be paid, with one source indicating a partial payment may be made.
• The stalemate could have long-term consequences for how laws are passed, as some have called for changing the Senate's 60-vote requirement to break the gridlock.
