The ongoing government shutdown has entered its third week, with Republicans intensifying pressure on Democrats through a multifaced strategy. Despite Trump’s recent shift in budgetary priorities to ensure military paychecks are not affected, GOP leaders are deploying a range of tactics to force a resolution. Senate Republicans have taken steps to prevent Democrats from advancing their stopgap funding bill, while the House remains in recess under Speaker Mike Johnson’s directive.
The potential impact on federal operations, including the courts and air travel, is being closely monitored. However, Democrats remain steadfast, with their focus on the upcoming Affordable Care Act enrollment period as a potential negotiating point. With military pay no longer a pressing issue, the shutdown is expected to continue for several more weeks. Republican leaders are optimistic that the continued stalemate will eventually push Democrats to the negotiating table, but so far, the impasse shows no signs of breaking quickly.