The U.S. government shutdown is now officially the longest in history 🌍📉, surpassing the 35-day record set in 2018-2019. The Senate failed again on Tuesday to pass a funding bill—marking its 14th unsuccessful attempt—as partisan tensions hit boiling point.
By the Numbers 🔢
The Republican-backed bill fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance, with a 54-44 split. Meanwhile, the Congressional Budget Office warns an 8-week shutdown could cost the economy $14 billion 💸. Over 42 million Americans relying on food assistance (SNAP) face uncertainty, and healthcare subsidies for 24 million people are set to expire, potentially spiking premiums by 30% 🏥🚨.
Blame Game Goes Viral 🎮
Senate leaders took to social media to spar. GOP’s John Thune accused Democrats of making "every day worse for the American people," while Democrat Chuck Schumer blamed Republicans for looming healthcare price hikes. Public approval of Congress? A dismal 15% 📉—lower than the chance of getting a viral TikTok trend right on the first try.
Real-World Fallout 🌎
From aviation delays to halted nutrition programs, the shutdown’s ripple effect is widening. Even federal judges had to step in to temporarily restore partial SNAP benefits. President Trump doubled down, vowing full benefits only after Democrats "open up government." Cue collective eye-rolls nationwide 😒.
What’s Next? 🤷♂️
With no deal in sight and midterm elections looming, experts say both parties are gambling with public trust. As Saint Anselm College’s Christopher Galdieri put it: "Nobody is happy." Could this be the plot twist that finally unites Capitol Hill? 🍿 Stay tuned.
