The federal government shutdown, which reached day 36 on Wednesday, is now the longest in U.S. history. The previous record of 35 days was set during President Donald Trump’s first term in 2019.
On Tuesday, the Senate failed for the 14th time to pass a short-term funding bill that would reopen the government.
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Democrats are still insisting that any deal include funding to extend health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Republicans say those talks can only happen after the government opens.
Government shutdown impacts
Meanwhile, the impact is spreading fast. At the nation’s airports, staffing shortages are growing. Air traffic controllers and TSA workers continue to work without pay, and many are now calling out sick.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is warning of potential “mass chaos” ahead. He said parts of U.S. airspace could soon have to close.
On Wednesday, Senate Republicans are heading to the White House for a breakfast meeting with the president, as both sides seek a way out of a stalemate that has now entered its sixth week.
‘End in sight’
The record-setting day comes after Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said he’s “optimistic” Congress can reopen the government this week.
He said that the goal is to send something back to the House that actually reopens the government, not just fund it through Nov. 21.
House Speaker Mike Johnson made similar comments at a news conference Monday. He said GOP leaders are working against the clock as the current bill’s expiration date nears.
