President Trump urges Republicans to reopen government as shutdown marks longest in US history
The government shutdown has reached its 36th day, the longest in U.S. history, as President Donald Trump pressures Republicans to end the Senate filibuster in order to reopen the government.
"It's time for Republicans to do what they have to do, and that's terminate the filibuster. It's the only way you can do it," .
The that requires 60 votes to advance most legislation. Ending the filibuster would allow Republicans to pass a bill with a simple majority, but several Republicans warn that when Democrats are in power, they'd be able to do the same thing.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said after breakfast at the White House, "It's just not happening."
The president also said the shutdown was a "big factor, negative" in Tuesday's election results.
"Countless public servants are now not being paid and the air traffic control system is under increasing strain. We must get the government back open soon and really immediately," Trump said.
The shutdown is hitting home for many Americans, with lines stretching at food banks across the country as SNAP benefits are delayed and reduced for more than 40 million Americans. After-school programs that depend on federal dollars are closing.
The Transportation Secretary said, starting Friday, there will be a 10% reduction in flights at 40 airports across the country.
Republicans have pushed to reopen the government with a short-term spending bill. Democrats have rejected those bills, arguing that Republicans are leaving out a key provision: restoring expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies that help millions of Americans lower their health-insurance costs. Democrats say passing a short-term bill without those subsidies would leave families facing sudden premium spikes.
"The election results ought to send a much needed bolt of lightning to Donald Trump that he should meet with us to end this crisis," said Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York. "The American people have spoken last night. End the shutdown, end the healthcare crisis, sit down and talk with us."
Republicans have said they're willing to negotiate ACA subsidies, but only after the shutdown is over.
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