US Government Shutdown Enters Fourth Week Amid Dispute Over Health Subsidies

The U.S. government is in the midst of its second-longest shutdown in history, with federal workers unpaid and millions at risk of losing crucial health insurance subsidies. The impasse centers on conflicting demands: Republicans, controlling the White House and Congress, insist on reopening the government without conditions, while Democrats push for the restoration of Obamacare subsidies that are being cut under President Trump's leadership. Democrats argue this shutdown is unique because it is driven by their spending demands rather than budget cuts, and they claim Republicans, as the party in control, bear the primary responsibility for the stalemate. Public opinion polls indicate blame is divided between parties, though many Americans support extending premium tax credits to maintain affordable healthcare. The standoff continues with rising stakes as paychecks are delayed and healthcare costs increase, with both sides unwilling to compromise. Efforts to mitigate the impact include emergency food relief funding announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul and negotiation attempts by Connecticut's congressional delegation.