WASHINGTON — In a critical turn of events on Thursday, the Senate rejected competing bills aimed at providing compensation for federal workers as the government shutdown continued into its 23rd day. With federal employees on the brink of missing their first full paycheck, both Republicans and Democrats once again displayed a deep divide on how to navigate the current crisis.
Republicans objected to a proposal by Democrats for a voice vote that would pay all federal workers while preventing mass firings from President Donald Trump's administration. Subsequently, Democrats block-voted a Republican bill intended to compensate employees who are still working but not furloughed, tallying a score of 54-45 against it.
With essential services teetering on the brink and under strain from the shutdown, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reminded air traffic controllers that their financial predicament is dire as they too may miss paychecks. Come to work, even if you do not get a paycheck, he urged, highlighting that many controllers could face tough financial decisions shortly.
The stalemate remains entrenched, primarily as Democrats insist on negotiating to extend expiring healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act before agreeing to reopen the government. Republicans, on the other hand, are adamant that discussions around healthcare aid will not occur until the government is back up and running.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the willingness of Republicans to discuss healthcare solutions but mentioned that such talks can't proceed while government funding remains disputed. This impasse arrives just ahead of the approaching open enrollment date for healthcare, which could further complicate the situation.
As both sides prepare for further negotiations, the road ahead looks challenging amid concerns for federal workers and the potential disruption to essential services for the public.
Republicans objected to a proposal by Democrats for a voice vote that would pay all federal workers while preventing mass firings from President Donald Trump's administration. Subsequently, Democrats block-voted a Republican bill intended to compensate employees who are still working but not furloughed, tallying a score of 54-45 against it.
With essential services teetering on the brink and under strain from the shutdown, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reminded air traffic controllers that their financial predicament is dire as they too may miss paychecks. Come to work, even if you do not get a paycheck, he urged, highlighting that many controllers could face tough financial decisions shortly.
The stalemate remains entrenched, primarily as Democrats insist on negotiating to extend expiring healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act before agreeing to reopen the government. Republicans, on the other hand, are adamant that discussions around healthcare aid will not occur until the government is back up and running.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the willingness of Republicans to discuss healthcare solutions but mentioned that such talks can't proceed while government funding remains disputed. This impasse arrives just ahead of the approaching open enrollment date for healthcare, which could further complicate the situation.
As both sides prepare for further negotiations, the road ahead looks challenging amid concerns for federal workers and the potential disruption to essential services for the public.
