The United States government has been partly closed for more than a month. If it continues, it will break the record for the longest shutdown in the nation’s history.
Senators left the capital for the weekend without an agreement on how to reopen the government. Both parties say the other side must make the first move.
Two federal judges ordered the Trump administration to use emergency money so that people can receive SNAP, commonly called food stamps, in November.
Even if the money arrives, families could still face late or smaller payments. Tens of millions of Americans depend on this safety net to buy groceries, heat their homes, and pay for child care.
After a trip abroad, President Donald Trump said the Senate should use a “nuclear option” to end the long-standing filibuster rule and pass a budget with a simple majority. Many Republicans fear this move could cause more problems later.
Republican leaders believe Democrats will give up after the November 4 elections. Democratic leaders say they will not back down unless they receive strong promises to protect Affordable Care Act subsidies.
Senators from both parties report a flood of phone calls from worried citizens. Some call about higher health-care costs; others fear losing SNAP and WIC benefits.
Recent polls show more voters blame Republicans and the White House for the shutdown, but everyone in Congress feels the heat as public anger increases.