As the U.S. government shutdown stretches into its third week, federal workers are beginning to feel the financial strain with the absence of their regular paychecks. Despite various proposals and negotiations, there remains no clear end in sight.

The Senate has adjourned for a long weekend, planning to reconvene on Tuesday. They are set to vote for the eighth time on a GOP-led continuing resolution (CR). Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer retains the ability to force another vote on the Democratic stopgap measure, though Republicans are expected to block further attempts to file cloture on the Democratic bill, according to Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.).

In an attempt to navigate out of the impasse, Senate Republicans proposed an idea to vote on Obamacare subsidies once the government reopens. This proposal, led by New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, received a cautious response, being described as "promising" by the lead Democratic negotiator. Additionally, Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) suggested a new stopgap funding plan that would extend the deadline to mid-December, a move that failed to impress Democratic leaders. Senate Whip Dick Durbin and Schumer both expressed dissatisfaction, seeking guarantees that any proposal would also secure a vote in the House.

Amid these negotiations, Speaker Mike Johnson remains committed to his strategy of keeping the House out of session to exert pressure on Senate Democrats. This stance has sparked criticism from within his own party, including Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) who advocates for standalone funding to ensure military personnel are paid. The White House is reportedly exploring ways to reallocate funds to cover military paychecks expected to be missed if the shutdown continues.

The idea of eliminating the Senate filibuster to reopen the government was floated by Representative John Rutherford (R-Fla.) and others, but Senate Majority Leader John Thune dismissed this option, citing long-term repercussions.

Looking Ahead

Speaker Johnson plans to maintain his public presence, scheduling a press conference with House GOP leaders and a call with the House Freedom Caucus. On the Democratic side, a virtual caucus meeting is planned for noon.

In a recent development, the Senate managed to pass a significant $925 billion defense authorization bill, breaking a month-long deadlock. This advancement may set the stage for further negotiations on a comprehensive defense bill aimed to be finalized by Thanksgiving.

As the shutdown continues, the ripple effects are increasingly felt by federal employees and the broader U.S. economy, with lawmakers under mounting pressure to find a resolution.