Federal Government Shutdown Enters 15th Day with No End in Sight
The federal government shutdown entered its 15th day on October 15, with no resolution in sight as Republicans and Democrats continued to negotiate a deal to reopen the government. The Senate's ninth attempt to advance a short-term funding bill failed Wednesday, leaving thousands of federal workers without pay.
According to reports, the Trump administration has been following through on threats to slash the size of government during the shutdown, laying off thousands of workers last week. A hearing in federal court considered the legality of those layoffs, with a judge issuing a temporary restraining order directing the Trump administration to pause RIF notices to federal employees who are members of two unions, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
"This is not just about politics; it's about people's lives," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., in a statement. "Federal workers are struggling to make ends meet, and this shutdown is only making things worse."
The shutdown began on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a budget bill, with the Senate voting down several proposals from House Republicans. The White House has maintained that it will not negotiate until Democrats agree to fund border security measures.
"This is a national emergency, and we need to take action," said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., in a statement. "We can't just sit back and do nothing while our borders are being overrun."
The shutdown has had far-reaching consequences across the country, with many federal agencies operating on reduced staff or closed entirely. National parks have been closed, and food assistance programs for low-income families have been disrupted.
As the standoff continues, lawmakers are preparing for a potential long-term shutdown. "We're not going to give in to the demands of the White House," said Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., in a statement. "We need to find a solution that works for everyone."
The Senate is expected to vote on another short-term funding bill next week, but it remains unclear whether it will pass. In the meantime, federal workers continue to struggle with the financial and emotional toll of the shutdown.
Background:
The government shutdown began on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a budget bill.
The White House has maintained that it will not negotiate until Democrats agree to fund border security measures.
Federal agencies have been operating on reduced staff or closed entirely, disrupting services for millions of Americans.
Additional Perspectives:
"This shutdown is a perfect example of what happens when politicians prioritize their own interests over the needs of the people," said Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., in a statement.
"We need to find a solution that addresses the root causes of this crisis, not just patching it up with short-term fixes," said Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., in a statement.
Current Status:
The Senate is expected to vote on another short-term funding bill next week.
Federal workers continue to struggle with the financial and emotional toll of the shutdown.
A long-term solution remains elusive as lawmakers prepare for a potential extended shutdown.
*Reporting by Npr.*
