Senate Votes on GOP Funding Bill for 13th Time as Shutdown Effects Mount

The U.S. Senate is currently holding its 13th vote on advancing a continuing resolution passed by the House, aimed at funding the government until November 21. This latest attempt comes as pressure mounts from both a looming suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and advocacy from the nation’s largest federal workers’ union. Historically, only three Democrats-Catherine Cortez Masto, John Fetterman, and Angus King, who is an independent aligning with Democrats-have supported advancing this funding measure in previous votes.

Senate Leadership Comments on Funding Measures

Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that there is a “not a high level of interest” among Republicans in establishing separate measures to pay specific federal workers or fund critical programs like air traffic control and SNAP. He stated, “I think most people recognize the way to get out of this mess is to vote to open up the government,” and described Democrats as being in a “blocking mode.” Thune expressed hope that as the realities of the shutdown become more evident, Democrats might reconsider their stance.

House Speaker Advocates for a Deal

During a press conference, House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized a new statement from the largest federal workers’ union that called for lawmakers to adopt a stopgap funding measure. He referred to this as an “off-ramp” for Democrats, suggesting that they can justify a government reopening. “You painted yourself into a corner, but here’s your off-ramp,” he advised, encouraging colleagues to take advantage of this opportunity.

SNAP Funding Concerns Raised

Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri has drawn attention to the impending halt of SNAP benefits, impacting over 40 million Americans. He is advocating for the “Keep SNAP Funded Act,” which would ensure uninterrupted funding for the program throughout the ongoing shutdown. Hawley expressed concern over the personal toll of the shutdown, stating, “Letting federal food assistance lapse would introduce an entirely new stage of suffering.” He reiterated the need for a clean funding measure to help those affected during this challenging period.

Growing Impact on Federal Workers

With the closure approaching start month, frustrations are rising among federal employees. Organizations like World Central Kitchen have begun providing free meals to furloughed workers, with nearly 2,000 meals distributed in Washington, D.C., alstart. Federal workers have expressed their distress, highlighting financial burdens exacerbated by the shutdown. “We are human beings with families with lives, and we have bills that just will not stop,” remarked furloughed worker Markita Bryant.

Anticipation of Flight Delays Amid Staffing Shortages

The ongoing impasse has also resulted in staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, leading to flight delays at major airports like Newark, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Austin. The Federal Aviation Administration attributes these delays to low staffing levels, with controllers having reported for duty without full pay since the shutdown began.

Conclusion and Next Steps

As the Senate prepares for its crucial vote on the GOP-backed continuing resolution at 11:30 a.m., there remains uncertainty about the pathway forward. Discussions are ongoing regarding potential measures to pay federal workers and fund necessary programs, but the prevailing Republican sentiment leans towards reopening the government as a priority.

As the situation evolves, the implications of the government shutdown and its impact on the American public loom large, with various groups advocating for immediate resolutions to avert further crises.