Leaders Fail to Reach Compromise
Efforts to avert a federal shutdown faltered after President Donald Trump’s meeting with congressional leaders ended without progress. Republicans pushed for a temporary funding measure free of policy attachments, while Democrats refused to back any deal that did not include renewed healthcare subsidies and other protections.
Standoff Deepens With Hours Left
As the midnight deadline looms, positions remain hardened. Vice President JD Vance said the government would close unless Democrats shifted course, while Democratic leaders argued that safeguarding healthcare was essential to any agreement. The lack of movement leaves Congress with little time to find a path forward.
Consequences of Inaction
Failure to strike a deal would halt many federal operations. Core services would continue, but thousands of employees could face furloughs, and numerous programs would be suspended. The breakdown at the White House has heightened fears of a protracted shutdown with broad political and economic repercussions.
