Senate Weekend Session: Lawmakers Struggle to Break Deadlock as Shutdown Looms

WASHINGTON (AP) — After a weekend session, the Senate still shows little progress in resolving the ongoing government shutdown, which has now lasted 39 days. Senate Majority Leader John Thune had pushed for a quick vote, but that hasn’t happened.

The shutdown is affecting many Americans. Federal workers are going unpaid, airlines are canceling flights, and SNAP benefits are delayed for millions. This isn’t just a political issue; it’s impacting lives.

President Trump has made it clear he won’t compromise with Democrats, who are looking for a one-year extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits. Instead, he took to social media to criticize the current healthcare system, calling it “the worst” and suggesting that direct payments to individuals could be a better solution.

Thune noted that Trump’s idea is not part of the solution for the shutdown, but mentioned it could lead to further discussions. Many Republican senators echoed Trump’s sentiments. For example, Senator Lindsey Graham argued that maintaining the current system benefits health insurance companies at the expense of consumers.

On the contrary, Senator Ron Wyden emphasized that while tackling insurance companies is important, it shouldn’t lead to millions losing their coverage. The divergence in these viewpoints highlights the complexities of this issue.

Senate Republican leaders are open to a proposal from moderate Democrats to end the shutdown. This would involve a later vote on extending the subsidies that make healthcare more affordable. Without these subsidies, average premiums for those enrolled in Affordable Care Act exchanges could more than double next year.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, leading talks among moderates, stressed the need for a new approach after Democrats’ past offers have been rejected. Discussions involve funding critical programs like food aid and veterans benefits until December or January, accompanied by a promise of future healthcare votes.

However, it remains uncertain whether this plan would have enough support from Democrats, especially with Trump skeptical about extending health benefits. House Speaker Mike Johnson has also expressed hesitance toward committing to a healthcare vote.

Some Republicans are willing to consider extending COVID-19-era tax credits, noting that millions may face skyrocketing premiums. They prefer subsidies to be routed through individuals, hoping to create a better system for consumers.

The emerging bipartisan package aims to replace previous legislation that has been rejected multiple times since the shutdown began. It currently only extends funding until November 21. A crucial test vote could occur soon if Thune chooses to move forward with it.

Democrats now face a significant choice: continue fighting for a meaningful deal on health subsidies or reopen the government, banking on future promises from Republicans regarding healthcare votes. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has argued that inaction could lead to severe financial and health crises for many Americans.

This situation underscores the hang-wringing challenges in U.S. politics. In times of such division, the real concern should be the impact on everyday lives. For more insights on how the shutdown is affecting Americans, check out [this detailed report from NPR](https://www.npr.org). The need for timely action is greater than ever.

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