Summary
The U.S. Senate continues discussions on the federal government shutdown, now in its 28th day. The shutdown affects millions, with concerns about federal workers not getting paid and food assistance programs potentially running out of funds. Democrats and Republicans remain at a standstill over government funding and related issues.
Key Facts
- The government shutdown has lasted 28 days, one of the longest in U.S. history.
- Federal workers and military personnel risk missing paychecks due to the shutdown.
- The American Federation of Government Employees has urged Congress to fund the government and pay workers.
- Funding for the food assistance program, SNAP, is running out, affecting 42 million Americans.
- There is disagreement between the Trump administration and Democrats about using emergency funds for SNAP.
- The Senate needs 60 votes to pass the funding measure, but has not achieved this yet.
- Democrats want any funding bill to also address rising health care costs under the Affordable Care Act.
