Senate Democrats Block Bill to Pay Essential Federal Workers During Shutdown

Senate Democrats have blocked a Republican-led bill, known as the Shutdown Fairness Act, which aimed to ensure pay for federal employees and military personnel working during the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 23rd day. The bill, sponsored by Senators Ron Johnson and Todd Young, failed to reach the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster, falling 54-45 largely along party lines, with only three Democrats crossing over to support it. Democrats criticized the bill for being overly selective, as it would only pay workers who are still working and not those furloughed, and instead insist on first addressing the extension of expiring COVID-19-era health insurance subsidies before reopening the government. Republicans accused Democrats of prolonging the shutdown and neglecting federal workers by opposing the bill, emphasizing that essential employees have been working without pay since October 1. The deadlock reflects broader partisan impasses, with Democrats demanding negotiations on subsidies and Republicans refusing to budge unless the government reopens. As a result, many federal workers are poised to miss their paychecks, raising concerns about the sustainability of essential services during the shutdown.