Senate Fails End Government Shutdown Amid Health Subsidy Dispute

The U.S. government shutdown continues as Senate Democrats blocked a House-passed stopgap spending bill for a second time, preventing an end to the funding impasse. The Senate vote failed to reach the 60 votes needed to overcome the filibuster, with most Democrats opposing the bill due to its failure to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies. Republicans argue that the subsidies can be addressed separately and have called for funding at current levels, while Democrats have demanded increased spending. The shutdown is forcing up to 750,000 federal employees to be furloughed daily, impacting government services, businesses, and families reliant on social benefits. Lawmakers and federal agencies express concern over the real-world consequences of the shutdown, including delays in federal permits and uncertainty for workers and communities. Despite ongoing talks, no resolution appears imminent, and the Trump administration has threatened mass layoffs to pressure Democrats, a move challenged by labor unions as illegal and immoral.