U.S. Government Shutdown Continues, Senate Fails to Pass Funding Bill

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday failed once again to pass a temporary funding bill, marking the 14th unsuccessful attempt to end the federal government shutdown. With no resolution in sight, the ongoing shutdown is on track to surpass the 35-day record set in 2018-2019, potentially becoming the longest in U.S. history.

The Republican-controlled Senate voted 54-44 in favor of the House-approved “clean” continuing resolution, which would fund the government at current levels through November 21. The bill fell short of the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster in the upper chamber, leaving federal operations in limbo.

The shutdown has caused widespread disruptions across multiple sectors, including aviation, healthcare, and food assistance programs, affecting millions of Americans and placing increasing pressure on the national economy. A report from the Congressional Budget Office estimates that if the shutdown continues for eight weeks, it could cost the U.S. economy $14 billion.

Political leaders continue to trade blame over the impasse. Senate Majority Leader John Thune criticized Senate Democrats, claiming the shutdown is worsening conditions for the public, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer pointed to Republicans as responsible for rising healthcare costs, highlighting the impact on Americans enrolling in Affordable Care Act health plans during the open enrollment period that began November 1. Experts warn that premiums could rise by approximately 30 percent next year as enhanced subsidies expire.

Food assistance programs have also been severely affected. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which serves 42 million Americans, has seen partial funding restored temporarily through emergency measures after federal court intervention, but full distribution may take weeks or months. President Donald Trump emphasized that benefits will resume only when Democrats reopen the government.

Public frustration with Congress is mounting. A recent Gallup poll showed approval ratings for the legislative body have dropped to just 15 percent, with nearly 80 percent of adults expressing disapproval of how lawmakers are handling the shutdown. Political analysts note that the standoff is leaving Americans anxious about healthcare, food security, and economic stability while eroding confidence in the government’s ability to manage national priorities effectively.

This historic shutdown highlights deep partisan divisions in Washington, leaving critical services on hold and affecting millions of Americans nationwide.