Particle.news

Download on the App Store

U.S. Government Shutdown Reaches Day 5 as Senate Stalemate Persists

A 60‑vote Senate threshold gives Democrats leverage to demand renewal of Affordable Care Act subsidies.

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.