Government Shutdown Continues Amid Senate Democratic Opposition, Costing $6.4B

The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its third week, is largely attributed by Republicans to Democratic obstruction, particularly targeting Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Senators Roger Marshall, Bill Cassidy, Joni Ernst, and Representative Marlin Stutzman have criticized Democrats for prioritizing ideological spending over reopening the government and for stalling negotiations, which they say harms military personnel, essential workers, and the broader economy. Cassidy highlighted the financial vulnerability of military families due to pay disruptions, urging Schumer to either open the government or at least ensure paychecks continue for servicemembers and essential employees. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson noted the urgency as the November 21 deadline to complete appropriations approaches, accusing Democrats of wasting time and political maneuvering. Republicans suggest that Democrats are using the shutdown as a political tactic ahead of upcoming state elections and accuse them of exploiting procedural rules to block progress. Overall, GOP leaders express unity behind President Trump's approach, emphasizing his focus on foreign policy and government reopening contingent on Democratic cooperation.