Democrats Halt Pay Guarantee Bill as Shutdown Crisis Deepens
The U.S. government shutdown has entered its third week, escalating tensions in Congress after Senate Democrats blocked a Republican proposal to secure back pay for 800,000 furloughed federal workers. The move intensifies partisan clashes as affected employees struggle to cover basic expenses.
Why Democrats Rejected the Pay Bill
The legislation, spearheaded by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), promised retroactive pay for workers impacted by the shutdown. Despite bipartisan support for the principle, Democrats argued the bill would weaken leverage to force a full government reopening.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) dismissed it as a “band-aid” tactic: “Federal workers need their government functioning, not promises. End the shutdown now.” Republicans countered sharply, with Cruz accusing Democrats of “holding pay hostage” for political gain.
Federal Workers Face Growing Hardship
With paychecks frozen, many employees are turning to food banks or side gigs. “I’m an EPA scientist driving Uber to feed my kids,” shared one worker. Key services like TSA screenings and food safety inspections face delays, amplifying public frustration.
Stalemate Over Ukraine Aid and Border Security
The shutdown stems from deadlocked negotiations on President Biden’s $106 billion request for Ukraine and disaster relief, opposed by Republicans demanding stricter border policies. The White House refuses partial deals, while House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) blames Democrats for “playing games.”
Public Backlash and Internal Divisions
Polls show voters split on blame, but the pay bill blockade drew rare Democratic dissent. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) called it “unnecessary hardship,” while progressives defended the strategy as pressure to resolve the crisis.
Economic Risks and What’s Next
Economists warn of GDP drag if the shutdown extends. Behind closed doors, moderates explore compromises, but federal workers remain in limbo—their financial pain underscoring Washington’s dysfunction.
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