In a notable political standoff, the US Senate faced a significant setback as the vote to reopen the government failed for the tenth time on Thursday. Prominent progressives such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez stood firm against Republican promises regarding healthcare subsidies, refusing to support the funding bill.
Senate Vote Fails Again
The Republican short-term funding proposal garnered only 51 votes, falling short of the necessary support. Following this vote, lawmakers are set to leave Washington for the weekend, prolonging the shutdown through at least Monday.
Thune’s Offer on Healthcare
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, in an attempt to garner support from Democrats, promised a vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies contingent on agreeing to reopen the government. Thune stated, “At some point, Democrats have to take yes for an answer.”
- Thune indicated willingness to include reforms such as income caps for healthcare subsidies.
- He did not commit to a one-year extension of subsidies, estimated to cost $35 billion annually.
- The potential for the shutdown to last until Thanksgiving was acknowledged by Thune.
Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez’s Stance
During a CNN town hall on Wednesday, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez firmly rejected the GOP’s offer. Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the necessity of actual legislation rather than mere promises. “I don’t accept IOUs. I don’t accept pinky promises,” she stated. Sanders added a sarcastic remark about taking a Trump pledge seriously.
Their response highlights a critical disagreement: they view any short-term funding solution as a delay tactic that might worsen the situation for Americans. Ocasio-Cortez stated, “What we will not accept is for the ACA premiums to skyrocket on the American people.”
Effects of the Government Shutdown
The ongoing shutdown has severely impacted federal workers, many of whom have gone weeks without pay. As the situation drags on, stories of hardship are emerging.
- A federal worker with four children expressed concern over feeding his family.
- Another woman reported her housing situation was jeopardized due to a government-backed loan being stalled.
Amidst the political turmoil, Ocasio-Cortez reassured constituents of their commitment to resolving the crisis, indicating a desire to act swiftly. However, the impasse with Republican leaders persists, leaving the future uncertain for both the government and impacted families.
