The U.S. capital is once again facing the threat of a government shutdown, as no budget agreement was reached between Democrats and Republicans. If no agreement is reached, the government will partially shut down at 12:01 a.m. on October 1, the start of the new fiscal year. With the deadline looming, President Donald Trump convened leaders of both parties in the Capitol to try to avert the feared 'shutdown'. Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer, are seeking the extension of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act and the reversal of Medicaid cuts, while Republicans insist on a temporary extension of funding until November. The White House has warned of possible mass layoffs if no agreement is reached.
Tensions are rising with statements from Republican leaders, who accuse Democrats of maintaining unacceptable demands, such as funding for medical care for immigrants and transgender surgeries. With historic differences at stake, the Senate, where Republicans hold 53 seats to 43 for the Democrats, requires bipartisan cooperation. In the midst of this recurring conflict, many federal services, deemed essential, will persist, although national parks and museums would close. The situation recalls past episodes such as the 2018 blockade. Meanwhile, Washington remains on edge, evaluating whether this time the 'wolf' will finally make its appearance.
Read the full news article on The Country.
