Summary
Senator Dick Durbin suggests that the best way to end the ongoing government shutdown is through bipartisan negotiations. He warns that if Congress does not act, millions of Americans could face much higher health care costs. The shutdown continues as lawmakers disagree over extending subsidies for Affordable Care Act marketplaces.
Key Facts
- The government shutdown has lasted nine days.
- Senator Dick Durbin urges Republicans to negotiate to resolve the shutdown.
- If Congress does not act, many people's health care premiums could double.
- The Senate rejected competing bills to fund the government for the seventh time.
- About 24 million Americans use Affordable Care Act marketplaces for health insurance.
- Republicans and Democrats disagree on how and when to extend health care subsidies.
- Senator Durbin mentioned an increase in health care premiums expected in Illinois on October 27.
- The ongoing shutdown affects federal workers, military families, and small businesses.
