WASHINGTON, D.C. — The federal government shutdown entered its 22nd day on Wednesday, making it the second-longest lapse in federal funding in modern American history. Congressional negotiations remain at a standstill, with lawmakers divided over spending priorities and policy provisions.
The Senate is scheduled to hold its 12th procedural vote at 5:15 p.m. today in an effort to advance a House-passed continuing resolution (CR) that would temporarily fund the government. The vote follows a 22-hour floor speech by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), who criticized former President Donald Trump during his remarks. Merkley began speaking Tuesday evening and concluded his address Wednesday afternoon.
The ongoing shutdown has resulted in federal employees missing their first full paycheck. Beginning Monday, federal courts are expected to reduce operations due to limited funding, which may lead to delays in court proceedings and case processing.
To date, the Senate has failed 11 times to pass a funding resolution. The House of Representatives remains out of session. Senate Republicans have called for the House to return to Washington to help advance negotiations. Senate Majority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) stated this week that the timeline for completing appropriations is narrowing.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) acknowledged the challenge of passing all appropriations bills on time but indicated that the House will make funding decisions on a “day-by-day basis.”
At the center of the deadlock is a disagreement over the inclusion of health care premium subsidy extensions in the funding measure. Republicans have emphasized fiscal restraint and a clean CR, while Democrats have stated that certain programs must be included in any temporary funding agreement.
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history lasted 35 days and occurred from late 2018 to early 2019
Discover more from The H3 Report
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.