Why Did the US Senate Fail to Resolve the Shutdown Deadlock?
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Synopsis
The US Senate's recent failure to advance a crucial funding bill has left federal employees and military personnel uncertain about their pay amid an ongoing government shutdown. With the situation reaching its 23rd day, this political impasse raises concerns for many Americans as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches.
Key Takeaways
- The Senate failed to advance the Shutdown Fairness Act aimed at ensuring pay for federal workers.
- Three Democratic Senators broke ranks to support the bill.
- Democrats oppose the bill, citing concerns over presidential authority regarding pay decisions.
- The shutdown now enters its 23rd day, with implications for the Thanksgiving holiday.
- Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay.
Washington, Oct 24 (NationPress) The US Senate encountered a setback on Thursday as it was unable to push forward a Republican-supported initiative aimed at guaranteeing pay for federal employees, military personnel, and contractors who are still working during the ongoing government shutdown, now entering its 23rd day.
The proposed legislation, titled the "Shutdown Fairness Act" and introduced by Republican Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, did not receive the necessary 60 votes to advance.
With 54 votes in favor and 45 against, three Democrats—John Fetterman from Pennsylvania, along with Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock—defied their party to support the bill.
Proponents argued that the legislation was crucial for providing immediate assistance to the hundreds of thousands of federal workers who remain on duty despite not receiving paychecks.
"These are individuals serving our nation. They deserve to be compensated," Johnson stated before the vote took place.
On the other hand, Democrats opposed the bill, claiming it would grant the President excessive authority to determine which employees would receive pay, thereby infringing on Congress's constitutional power regarding spending.
In response, Democrats introduced their own set of bills designed to ensure pay for all federal workers during the shutdown, but these were blocked by Republicans, preventing any further votes on the measures.
Following the unsuccessful vote, the Senate adjourned for the weekend, with no sessions scheduled for Friday.
Lawmakers are expected to reconvene on Monday, marking Day 27 of the shutdown, unless a sudden resolution is reached.
Additionally, the Chamber left without conducting a 13th vote on the House-passed funding bill, likely prolonging the shutdown into the following week.
At the White House, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioned that the ongoing shutdown could significantly disrupt air travel during the fast-approaching Thanksgiving holiday.
"As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, we are entering the busiest travel period of the year," Leavitt warned, highlighting the potential for major flight delays, disruptions, and cancellations if the shutdown continues.
She noted that approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers are currently working without remuneration.
Last year, the Transportation Security Administration screened over three million passengers on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, setting a record.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of addressing the ongoing government shutdown. The inability of the Senate to reach a resolution directly impacts countless federal employees and military personnel. It is essential that lawmakers prioritize their needs while also respecting constitutional boundaries concerning federal spending.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shutdown Fairness Act?
The Shutdown Fairness Act is a proposed legislation aimed at ensuring pay for federal employees, military personnel, and contractors during a government shutdown.
Why did the Senate fail to advance the bill?
The Senate could not achieve the necessary 60 votes to advance the Shutdown Fairness Act, resulting in a deadlock.
How long has the government shutdown been ongoing?
The government shutdown has now entered its 23rd day.
What impact could the shutdown have on air travel?
The ongoing shutdown could lead to significant disruptions, including flight delays and cancellations, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Who introduced the Shutdown Fairness Act?
The Shutdown Fairness Act was introduced by Republican Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.
