The United States government shutdown has stretched into its sixth day after the Senate once again failed to approve funding measures on Monday. Both Democratic and Republican proposals fell short of the 60 votes needed to move forward, marking the fifth failed attempt to end the crisis.
The Democratic-led bill to extend government funding was rejected first, with a 45-50 vote, followed by the Republican version, which failed 52-42. The deadlock leaves thousands of federal employees either furloughed or working without pay since government funding lapsed last Wednesday.
President Donald Trump reiterated earlier threats of mass layoffs if no deal was reached but suggested he was open to negotiation. “We have a negotiation going on right now with the Democrats that could lead to very good things, particularly on healthcare,” he said.
However, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer dismissed Trump’s claim, writing on X that “THIS ISN’T TRUE.” Democrats have insisted any funding bill must include protections for healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans and reverse recent cuts to Medicaid.
Republicans, meanwhile, are calling for a “clean” funding bill that separates healthcare issues from budget negotiations. They have accused Democrats of using the shutdown to push healthcare access for undocumented immigrants a claim Democratic leaders strongly deny.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned that permanent layoffs could be “imminent” if the shutdown continues. “We don’t want to see people laid off, but that’s an unfortunate consequence if Democrats keep blocking a funding bill,” she said.
Public frustration is growing. A CBS poll shows that Americans view both parties unfavorably in handling the shutdown, though Trump and congressional Republicans shoulder slightly more blame.
As negotiations stall, uncertainty looms over when or if the government will reopen anytime soon.