New York: The Republican-Democrat funding standoff continues to shake the United States, disrupting travel, salaries, and essential services. Hundreds of flights were canceled, millions of federal employees went unpaid, and families across the country now struggle to access food assistance.
The shutdown, stretching into its 39th day, has disrupted major government functions. Essential departments still operate, but unpaid workers like air traffic controllers are staying home, forcing authorities to cut 10% of flights at 40 major airports. That decision led to about 1,000 flight cancellations on Saturday alone.
Senators held an emergency weekend session but failed to reach an agreement. They plan to meet again on Sunday to find a breakthrough. The dispute revolves around a short-term “continuing resolution” designed to keep government services funded until the new budget is approved.
The stalemate stems from the Senate’s filibuster rule, which requires 60 votes to move a bill forward. Republicans, who hold 53 seats, cannot pass their version of the funding bill without Democratic support. President Donald Trump urged his party to end the rule, but GOP leaders resisted, fearing Democrats could exploit that move in the future.
Democrats insist they will not cooperate unless the government extends Obamacare subsidies. They argue that ending them would harm millions of Americans. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said, “Democrats are ready to pass a funding bill that protects healthcare affordability.” Republican leader John Thune countered that Democrats must first lift their blockade before talks can resume.
As the Republican-Democrat funding standoff drags on, the consequences grow severe. Food assistance programs stopped after the Supreme Court allowed the administration to freeze funds, pushing local charities to step in. The Congressional Budget Office warned that the prolonged shutdown could slow US economic growth by up to 2% this quarter.
The deep political divide in Washington now threatens jobs, services, and stability, leaving millions of Americans caught in the middle of a crisis that shows no signs of easing.
–IANS
