Khaberni - The government shutdown in the United States entered its second week on Monday, with no sign of reaching an agreement between Republicans and Democrats, while it will lead to the cessation of military salaries by mid-month.
Democrats refuse to provide the few votes needed by the ruling Republicans to reopen federal agencies, unless both sides agree on extending healthcare support packages that are about to expire soon, which means a significant increase in costs for millions of low-income Americans.
With government funds depleted since Wednesday and completely stopped, it seems that Senate Democrats are on the verge of voting against a temporary funding bill passed by the House of Representatives for the fifth time.
This strong stance by the Democrats represents a rare moment of influence for the opposition party at a time when Republicans largely control all branches of government, even President Donald Trump himself is accused of despotism for tightening his grip on power.
With the renewal of funding not taking place, non-essential services are suspended.
It is expected that the salaries of hundreds of thousands of public sector employees will be withheld starting Friday, while military salaries will stop from October 15th.
Threat of Layoffs
Trump escalated the situation drastically by threatening to lay off large numbers of government employees, instead of granting them temporary leave as had happened in every previous government shutdown over the years.
Republicans are sticking to their positions. House Speaker Mike Johnson asked members of the House not to come to Congress unless the Democrats capitulate.
In contrast, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries believes that it is the Republicans who are hindering any hope for negotiations.
During a press conference held in New York on Sunday, he said, "Mike Johnson and the Republican representatives need to get back to work. Do your job. The Democrats will be present."
In turn, Johnson blamed the Democratic leader in the Senate, Chuck Schumer. He said to NBC, "We need them to turn the lights back on so that everyone can do their job. The House has done our part."
