US Government Shutdown Hits 35 Days, Equals Longest in History

The United States government shutdown has stretched into its 35th day, matching the longest closure in the nation’s history. With no breakthrough expected before midnight, it is almost certain to become the longest ever.

Federal agencies have been partly paralysed since lawmakers failed to approve a funding bill before the 30 September deadline. About 1.4 million federal employees have either been sent home without pay or are working without salaries, while welfare programmes and even military pay are under threat.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he was “optimistic” that fresh negotiations between Republicans and Democrats could produce a deal soon. However, the two sides remain divided over healthcare funding.

Democrats insist that expiring insurance subsidies must be renewed before they vote to reopen government funding. Republicans argue that healthcare talks should come only after the shutdown ends.

President Donald Trump has refused compromise, threatening mass layoffs and calling for the Senate filibuster to be scrapped, a move even fellow Republicans reject.

While moderate lawmakers are discussing possible solutions, leaders on both sides show little sign of backing down, leaving millions of Americans caught in political deadlock.

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