Congress Deadlocked Over Funding, Risks Nationwide Government Shutdown

Congress faces a potential government shutdown as Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked over federal funding, with President Trump convening a meeting with congressional leaders to seek a resolution. Democrats are pushing for an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits to prevent steep health insurance premium increases, while Republicans prioritize a narrower spending bill to keep the government running. The impasse threatens funding for $675 million in Texas earmarked projects supporting infrastructure, research, and community programs, which could be jeopardized if the government shuts down. Both Republican and Democratic continuing resolutions to fund the government temporarily were rejected by the Senate, with disagreements over health care provisions and spending levels. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that permanently extending enhanced premium tax credits would cost about $350 billion over ten years while expanding health coverage by millions. Without a deal, federal agencies face furloughs and disruptions, with significant impacts on services and workers nationwide.