Shutdown Poised to Become Longest in US History

The U.S. government shutdown has entered its sixth week and is poised to become the longest in U.S. history. President Donald Trump said in a televised interview he “won't be 'extorted'” by Democrats and will not negotiate to reopen the government until they vote to end the shutdown. Democrats are insisting on extending expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies before supporting a funding bill, while Senate filibuster rules mean Republican control of Congress does not guarantee passage. The stalemate has led to furloughed federal workers and missed paychecks, growing airport delays, and immediate threats to food aid and health-care subsidies for tens of millions, prompting community food drives and local relief efforts. Trump urged GOP leaders to scrap the filibuster so Republicans could act without Democratic votes, a push that Senate Republicans have so far rejected.