Political Divide Deepens as Government Shutdown Deal Sparks Controversy
A deal to end the record-long government shutdown has been struck, but it's not all smooth sailing for Democrats.
Key Points of the Deal
- Funding Agencies: Funding for several agencies until next fall.
- Temporary Funding: Temporary funding measure for the rest of the government until January 2026.
- Food Assistance: Ensures continuation of food assistance programs.
- Federal Workers: Prevents layoffs of federal workers.
- Affordable Care Act: Does not extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, a major concession from Democrats.
Senate Democrats' Role
Eight Senate Democrats joined forces with Republicans to push forward the plan. These Democrats are all from the more moderate wing of the party. Notably, none of them will face voters in the 2026 midterm elections. This has sparked criticism from progressive activists and other Democratic lawmakers, who argue that the party is giving up momentum.
Legislative Process
The deal still needs:
- Final approval from the Senate.
- A nod from the House.
- President Trump's signature to become law.
The Senate is expected to vote on the bill soon. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson has called on House Republicans to return to Washington. The House will also swear in a new representative, Adelita Grijalva, who won a special election last month.
Supreme Court Updates
The Supreme Court has been busy:
- Rejected: An attempt to overturn the 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.
- Agreed to Consider: Whether federal law bars states from counting mail-in ballots received after Election Day.
- Rastafarian Prisoner Case: Seemed unlikely to allow a Rastafarian prisoner to sue officials who cut his dreadlocks, violating his religious rights.