A deal to avert a government shutdown in the United States appears unlikely, with Republicans and Democrats failing to reach an agreement ahead of a March 14 deadline. The main point of contention is President Donald Trump’s actions, including suspending foreign aid and firing tens of thousands of federal workers.
Democrats are pushing for guarantees that would prevent Trump from further reducing funding or cancelling programs, while Republicans argue that these proposals are non-starters. A flat-line extension would fund the government at current levels through September 30 but could pose problems for the military and safety net programs.
The shutdown threat comes as the US is confronting global challenges from Russia, China, and other countries. The government employs 2.3 million civilian workers and would be forced to furlough hundreds of thousands if a deal is not reached.
Lawmakers are pointing fingers at each other, with some blaming Republicans for failing to fund the government. Others say Democrats are stalling on a clean extension of spending through September. With no clear resolution in sight, the US government is bracing for another shutdown that could have far-reaching consequences.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-congress-nowhere-close-deal-avert-shutdown-ahead-march-14-deadline-2025-03-03