The United States government shutdown is set to drag into next week after the Senate once again failed to pass competing Democratic and Republican proposals to fund federal operations. With lawmakers departing Washington for the weekend and the House signalling no immediate return, the political deadlock is showing no signs of breaking.

US Govt Shutdown: What happened in Congress today?

The Senate rejected both parties’ short-term funding bills on Friday afternoon, leaving no clear path to reopening government functions. At the heart of the dispute are enhanced Obamacare subsidies: Democrats argue they must be resolved immediately, while Republicans insist the issue should be debated later this year.

US Govt Shutdown: How are Republicans defending the shutdown?

Republican Senator Roger

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