The United States government shutdown entered its 22nd day with no resolution in sight after Senate Democrats blocked the twelfth Republican attempt to reopen the government on Wednesday afternoon. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and his Democratic caucus prevented the measure from advancing with a 54-46 vote, falling short of the 60 votes required for passage. This latest failed vote comes amid Schumer’s call for another meeting with President Donald Trump and follows an almost 24-hour filibuster by Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon, which extended the proceedings late into Wednesday, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to the bitbetnews.com.
Merkley’s marathon speech, which began at 6:23 p.m. on Tuesday, criticized the Trump administration for what he described as overreach and authoritarian tendencies. He addressed issues related to immigration policy, the separation of powers, and other aspects of executive authority.
“Republicans have shut down the government to continue their strategy of cutting Americans’ healthcare,” Merkley stated, highlighting the ongoing disputes over government funding that center on healthcare programs. He concluded his remarks at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
Since the shutdown began, little progress has been made in the upper chamber. Schumer and Senate Democrats insist on a solid, enforceable agreement to extend expiring Obamacare subsidies, while Senate Republicans maintain that no negotiations on the issue can proceed until the government reopens.
Earlier we wrote that U.S. Senate Fails to Pass Temporary Funding Bill, Extending Government Shutdown.
