Congressional Stalemate Extends Government Shutdown, Military Funding at Risk

The U.S. government shutdown has entered its 20th day with no resolution in sight, as both parties remain deeply entrenched. Senate Majority Leader John Thune plans to introduce legislation to pay the military during the shutdown, aiming to pressure Democrats who previously voted against a defense appropriations bill that included military pay and increases. Despite ten previous Senate votes failing to reach the necessary 60 votes, this move seeks to break the deadlock by forcing Democrats to take a clear stance on military compensation. However, skepticism remains about whether this strategy will succeed given the Democrats' firm opposition so far. The ongoing impasse highlights the continuing stalemate in Congress and the challenges in reaching a compromise to end the shutdown.