As the government shutdown continues, Senate Democrats have once again halted a Republican effort aimed at ensuring federal employees and military personnel continue receiving their paychecks. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) put forward a modified version of the Shutdown Fairness Act, which aimed to guarantee compensation during both the current and any future shutdowns.
Last month, this bill faced opposition due to concerns raised by Senate Democrats regarding the exclusion of furloughed workers.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has proposed an alternative plan, suggesting a one-year extension of Obamacare subsidies as a way to facilitate reopening the government.
Johnson stated on the Senate floor that he adjusted the legislation to include furloughed workers, reflecting talks with Senate Democrats. He mentioned support from various federal employee unions, adding, “They’re tired of being used as pawns in the political dysfunction here. They’re tired of it.”
Despite Johnson’s revisions, the bill was again blocked, primarily along party lines. A fiery exchange between Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-Mich.) and Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.) contributed to the tensions, especially on the heels of earlier debates about potential presidential influence over which groups might receive payments.
Thune emphasized, “It’s a matter of leverage, right? Isn’t that what you guys are saying? This is not leverage. These are the lives of the American people.”
Originally, bringing Johnson’s bill to the floor was not part of the Senate Republicans’ agenda. Thune had initially intended to vote on the House-passed Continuing Resolution, but newfound Democratic unity following a recent election victory sidelined bipartisan discussions.
In parallel, Schumer and his caucus have laid out their own counterproposal aimed at reopening the government. Schumer’s plan includes extending Obamacare subsidies, which have become a significant sticking point. This proposal, quickly rejected by Senate Republicans after being submitted privately last week, also struggled to gain GOP backing.
The Senate is expected to reconvene Saturday for another vote on the House plan. It remains uncertain if Schumer and his team will once again block it.
