Government Shutdown Enters Sixth Day Amidst Senate Deadlock Over Health Care Funding

The U.S. government shutdown has extended into its sixth and seventh days amid a stalemate between President Donald Trump and Democratic leaders over funding and healthcare subsidies. Trump indicated openness to negotiating a deal to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits but criticized the 2010 health law and highlighted concerns about wasted subsidies. The Senate failed multiple times to pass either the Republican-backed short-term funding bill or the Democrats' proposal preserving expiring Obamacare subsidies, with votes largely along party lines but with a few defections. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the Democrats' firm position on healthcare demands, while Republicans demand reopening the government before negotiations. The Republican-controlled House remains out of session until the funding issue is resolved. Both parties face increasing pressure as essential government services continue without pay and the risk of mass layoffs looms.