Washington, D.C. — United States senators are participating in a series of crucial votes aimed at reaching a deal to end the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 41st day — the longest in the nation’s history.
According to reports, the votes could pave the way for a final Senate decision. However, even if the proposal secures the required 60 votes, it must still pass through the House of Representatives before being presented to President Donald Trump for approval.
The protracted shutdown has brought significant disruptions to government services, leaving around 1.4 million federal employees either furloughed or working without pay.
The crisis has also spilled over into the aviation sector, with staffing shortages causing widespread flight delays and cancellations. Over 7,000 flights have been delayed and 2,000 cancelled across the country.
Earlier today, President Trump urged unpaid air traffic controllers to “get back to work,” warning that those who failed to comply risked having their pay docked once the shutdown ends.