Senate Rejects Democratic Spending Bill, Triggers US Government Shutdown

The U.S. government shutdown, triggered by Congress's failure to pass a stopgap funding bill, is causing internal pressure within the Democratic Party as moderate Democrats quietly seek to end the stalemate, according to Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Despite these signals, party leadership, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, remains committed to pressing for lower healthcare costs, particularly the extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies and the reversal of GOP Medicaid cuts. Senate Democrats rejected a Republican clean continuing resolution, and talks between GOP leaders and Democrats have stalled, with Republicans refusing to negotiate on ACA credits. The shutdown threatens critical programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), which could face funding disruptions, but some Democrats dismiss concerns about its impact. Additionally, Democratic lawmakers caution the Pentagon against using funds from the GOP reconciliation package to cover defense costs during the shutdown, reflecting tensions over budget priorities. Overall, the shutdown reflects deep partisan divisions and conflicting priorities impacting millions of Americans.