Senate Stalemate: Government Shutdown Stretching into November Amid Healthcare Crisis

Senate leaders are locked in a standoff as the U.S. government shutdown threatens to extend into November, with implications for millions facing soaring health insurance costs. With federal workers furloughed and food assistance at risk, bipartisan negotiation is needed to break the deadlock.

The current U.S. government shutdown may extend into November, warned Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer, citing the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits that could inflate healthcare costs for millions. As enrollment begins, the pressure mounts on lawmakers to resolve the deadlock.

Despite the furlough of hundreds of thousands of federal workers and the impending end of federal food assistance, both Schumer and Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune have shown little willingness to compromise. On Tuesday, the Senate dismissed a stopgap funding bill, marking the 13th failure to pass such legislation, as Democrats demanded an extension of healthcare tax credits.

Should the shutdown continue, it would become the longest in U.S. history by next Wednesday. More than 41 million could lose food assistance, with discussions on "rifle shot" legislation to selectively pay vital employees being ruled out by Republicans, who insist on opening up the government entirely.

(With inputs from agencies.)