Shutdown to continue after funding measures fail again in Senate

The U.S. government shutdown is set to continue after the Senate once again failed to pass competing funding measures, marking the fifth unsuccessful vote since the shutdown began on October 1, 2025.

Status After Senate Votes

The Senate rejected both Democratic and Republican proposals, with neither measure reaching the required 60 votes for passage. The Democratic plan focused on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, while the Republican proposal sought a “clean” funding extension without policy riders. Only a small number of cross-party senators supported the opposing bills, but not enough to break the impasse.

Impact and White House Response

President Donald Trump and administration officials have repeatedly warned that continued failure to reach a funding agreement could lead to widespread layoffs among federal employees, with reduction-in-force (layoff) notices potentially imminent if the shutdown persists into the week. Agencies are preparing for these layoffs and critical services are already feeling strain, such as air traffic control centers being short-staffed or closed in major cities.

Political Stalemate and Next Steps

The core dispute remains over the Democrats’ demand to extend ACA subsidies and the Republican insistence on a straightforward funding bill. Negotiations continue, but leaders from both sides do not appear willing to compromise, and the deadlock could last several more days. Majority Leader John Thune has indicated no new talks are scheduled and Democrats have been urged by President Trump to allow government operations to resume before further negotiations on healthcare policies.

Consequences of Continued Shutdown

• Thousands of federal workers have been furloughed or are working without pay.

• Layoffs could affect agencies aligned more with Democratic priorities, according to administration statements.

• Essential services and programs, including food assistance and air traffic control, are seeing increased disruptions.

The situation remains highly fluid, with the next Senate vote potentially scheduled for Tuesday, but no signs point to a swift resolution.