Hang tight: the US federal government is about to hit a financial cliff as the Senate fails to pass a short-term funding patch. If no deal lands by midnight, we’ll see the first shutdown in nearly seven years 😬
Here’s the 411: Republicans pushed a “continuing resolution” — basically a temporary stopgap to keep agencies running — but Senate Democrats blocked it. They argue it doesn’t address key healthcare benefits, like extended Affordable Care Act subsidies and coverage for legally present immigrants (think refugees and asylum seekers).
On the flip side, GOP leaders say they just want more time to negotiate, without adding new healthcare riders. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer fired back on X, claiming this “shutdown” is a self-inflicted wound by Republicans and that they’re lying about the Dems’ demands 🚨
Why should you care? A shutdown can delay services, furlough federal workers, and stall things like visa processing — which might hit students and young pros planning to study or work abroad. Plus, last time around in 2018–19, it cost the US economy billions.
Both sides plan another vote later this week. Until then, it’s a high-stakes stare-down on Capitol Hill. Stay tuned as we track whether they’ll patch things up or go over the edge 🌐
Reference(s):
U.S. government braces for shutdown as Senate blocks spending bill
cgtn.com
