Government shutdown reaches its 40th day as senators work through a crucial weekend

The U.S. government shutdown has reached its 40th day, with senators working through a weekend for the first time since it began, in an effort to find a bipartisan resolution. The shutdown has disrupted flights, threatened SNAP benefits, and left federal workers without pay. Republican leaders are considering a package of bills to reopen the government through January, but this requires Democratic support, which is not guaranteed. Democrats, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, are pushing for a one-year extension of expiring health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Republicans have so far rejected this outright, but some moderate Democrats have proposed a deal where the shutdown would end in exchange for a promise of a later vote on these subsidies. The lapse of these subsidies is projected to more than double premiums for those enrolled in ACA marketplaces. President Donald Trump has indicated he is unlikely to compromise and has urged Republicans to eliminate the filibuster to bypass Democrats. Moderate senators from both parties are negotiating on bills to fund specific government functions, such as food aid and veterans programs, and extend funding for others until later in the year. Howeve... download the app to read more