Ongoing government shutdown becomes longest in US history
What's the story
The United States government shutdown, which began on October 1, has now entered its 36th day. This makes it the longest shutdown in American history, surpassing the previous record of 35 days during Donald Trump's first term in office in 2019. The impasse was triggered by Congress's failure to agree on a new funding deal, leaving federal workers unpaid and millions without essential services.
Consequences
Transportation Secretary warns of potential air travel disruptions
There are also concerns about air travel disruptions as air traffic controllers and airport staff continue to work without pay. Due to the shutdown, around 13,000 government employees working as air traffic controllers have gone without pay. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy on Tuesday warned that parts of US airspace might be closed if the shutdown continues, potentially leading to mass flight delays and cancelations.
Aid disruption
Shutdown threatens food assistance for low-income Americans
The shutdown has also affected low-income Americans dependent on government services. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to one in eight Americans, is facing funding challenges. The Trump administration initially said no SNAP funds would be distributed in November, but a US court ruled that contingency funds be used to provide some assistance. Since the ruling, Trump has indicated he may not listen, saying it'll be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government."
Legislative deadlock
Senate votes on short-term funding bill, but no breakthrough
The Senate has voted on a short-term funding bill more than a dozen times, but efforts have been unsuccessful. Democrats are demanding healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans in exchange for supporting the measure, while Republicans have resisted, accusing them of holding the government hostage over unrelated issues. Majority Leader John Thune warned that without progress by midweek, it would be difficult to finalize anything by week's end.