US government shutdown seen dragging into next week

The United States government shutdown, which began on Wednesday, shows no signs of resolution as the Senate prepares for a fourth vote on a funding proposal introduced by President Donald Trump’s Republican party. The proposal, however, is widely expected to fail, prolonging the crisis into next week. Federal agencies remain unfunded, leading to widespread disruptions in public services due to the ongoing impasse in Congress. Senate leaders have no plans to convene over the weekend, making Friday’s afternoon vote the final opportunity this week to break the deadlock. Analysts warn that the shutdown could persist, exacerbating the political and economic turmoil. In a significant development, the Trump administration has halted the release of a crucial employment report, obscuring insights into the health of the world’s largest economy. This marks the latest in a series of delayed economic data releases, leaving government officials and business leaders without vital decision-making indicators. The stalemate centers on Democratic demands to extend expiring healthcare subsidies, which, if unaddressed, would significantly increase costs for millions of low-income Americans. Republicans, who control both the legislature and the White House but require Democratic support to pass funding bills, have yet to propose a solution. Democrats are leveraging their position by refusing to assist in funding the government, intensifying the standoff. Amid widespread pessimism, some Republicans hope that a fourth failed vote might pressure moderate Democrats to compromise. Reports suggest that Republican Senate leader John Thune is open to negotiations with Democratic counterpart Chuck Schumer to seek a resolution.