- Government shutdown deadline passes without Senate resolution
- Senator Fetterman breaks ranks, vows to keep government open
- Schumer blocks GOP funding bill, proposes 30-day extension
- Federal workers face furloughs if agreement fails
With 24 hours remaining before a potential government shutdown, Senate Democrats emerged from closed-door meetings with no unified strategy. Senator Tammy Baldwin's cryptic What happens in caucus, stays in caucusremark underscored the tense negotiations. The stalemate marks the third budget crisis this congressional session, reflecting deepening partisan divides over spending priorities.
Senator John Fetterman emerged as the lone Democratic voice advocating compromise, stating: Never shut the government down. That's one of our core responsibilities.The Pennsylvania freshman's stance contrasts with leadership's hardline position, recalling his 2023 brokering of a debt ceiling deal. Analysts suggest this independence could reshape intra-party dynamics during appropriations battles.
Historical data reveals shutdowns cost taxpayers $3.7 billion weekly in 2019. A new Brookings Institute projection estimates daily GDP losses of $420 million if closures extend beyond March 15. Regional impacts could hit Maryland hardest – 147,000 federal workers reside in the D.C. metro area, where 12% of households depend on government paychecks.
Senate Minority Leader Schumer's proposed 30-day continuing resolution faces Republican resistance. The House-approved GOP bill includes controversial amendments reducing EPA funding by 18%, setting up policy clashes. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre warned: Any shutdown responsibility lies squarely with Republican extremists.