Senate Deadlocked Over Pay for Federal Workers Amid Ongoing Shutdown
The Senate is currently deadlocked over the issue of paying federal workers during the ongoing government shutdown. A vote is scheduled to determine whether certain federal employees, such as air traffic controllers, federal law enforcement officers, and military personnel, will receive their pay despite the shutdown. Senators are divided on the issue, with some advocating for payment for all workers, while others support a bill that would only pay employees deemed essential by President Trump. The Senate's attempts to pass spending bills have been unsuccessful, with a recent filibuster by Sen. Jeff Merkley causing further delays. The shutdown, now in its 23rd day, is the second-longest in U.S. history, and public opinion is split on which party is to blame for the impasse. Despite ongoing negotiations, there is no clear end in sight for the shutdown.