The Excerpt Government shutdown enters week five with no end in sight
Oct 29, 2025
Joined by Zach Schermele, a USA TODAY Congress reporter, the discussion dives into the ongoing government shutdown, now nearing a record length. Zach explains the gridlock between parties and pinpoints Obamacare subsidies as a key negotiation hurdle. He highlights how daily life for millions is disrupted, from flight delays due to unpaid air traffic controllers to looming hunger crises as SNAP funding runs short. With federal workers facing layoffs and uncertainty around military pay, Zach emphasizes that urgent decisions may be on the horizon.
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Stalemate Deepens As Both Sides Hold Firm
- The shutdown shows both parties are dug in and unwilling to compromise, making resolution unusually difficult.
- Senate GOP short-term funding votes have failed and House timing adds logistical pressure on negotiations.
Obamacare Subsidies Are The Central Flashpoint
- Democrats center negotiations on preserving enhanced Obamacare premium tax credits that expire at year-end.
- Republicans show limited willingness to help due to false claims and internal divisions, complicating any deal.
Service Disruptions Raise Political Pressure
- Every day of the shutdown increases pain across services and raises pressure as programs expire and furloughs expand.
- Air traffic disruptions from unpaid controllers are already affecting travel and could push lawmakers to act.