Overview
- The Senate failed Friday to advance rival reopening bills, 44–54 and 46–52, ensuring the funding lapse continues at least into Monday.
- Democratic leaders report no substantive talks since a Monday White House meeting, as both parties escalate public messaging instead of private bargaining.
- President Donald Trump and senior officials have floated permanent federal workforce reductions, and OMB has directed agencies to list non‑essential programs for possible cuts.
- Despite Republican control of the White House and Congress, Senate rules require at least seven Democratic votes to reach 60 and move any stopgap funding.
- The Senate separately approved about $9 billion in cuts to foreign aid and public media, while House leaders plan no floor action next week and Senate GOP leaders suggest another vote Monday.