The partial shutdown of the U.S. government has extended into its sixth day, following another unsuccessful attempt by the Senate to approve funding measures. This marks the fifth consecutive failure by lawmakers to pass proposals aimed at ending the impasse and reopening federal agencies. As a result, approximately 900,000 federal employees remain furloughed, while an estimated 700,000 others continue to work without pay since agency funding expired five days ago. Essential services, such as Medicare, Medicaid, and the Transportation Security Administration, continue to operate, but key agencies including the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are partially or fully closed. (More background on shutdown)

The most recent Senate vote saw a Republican-backed proposal fall short of the required 60-vote threshold, with a final tally of 55-45. Notably, Democratic Senators Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, and Independent Angus King of Maine crossed party lines to support the measure, while Republican Rand Paul of Kentucky joined opponents. The proposal would have extended government funding through November 21. (Original report) (CBS coverage)

The deadlock is rooted in deep partisan disagreements over federal spending and healthcare policy. Democrats continue to push for the extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies, insisting that any funding bill must reverse recent cuts to healthcare programs and maintain coverage for millions of Americans. Republicans, however, demand a so-called “clean” funding measure, stripped of any additional policy provisions. (WFSU analysis)

President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to negotiate to resolve the funding deadlock, but reiterated his position that any deal must address his administration’s policy priorities. The president has also suggested that the shutdown could be leveraged as an opportunity to implement longer-term reductions in federal spending, particularly targeting social programs favored by Democrats, including Medicaid and other healthcare initiatives. (Time)

The administration’s stance, coupled with opposition lawmakers’ insistence on protecting health subsidies, has led to ongoing mutual accusations, with both parties blaming each other for prolonging the crisis. Meanwhile, the Office of Management and Budget has issued guidance directing agencies to prepare for potential staff layoffs if the shutdown continues. The Congressional Budget Office has warned that as many as 750,000 federal employees could be affected daily, resulting in an estimated $400 million in lost compensation. (Time report)

Some federal courts have announced that operations can be maintained through October 17, 2025, by drawing on existing funds. Should the shutdown persist beyond that date, non-essential court activities may be curtailed, with staff potentially required to work without pay. (Reuters - Judiciary update)

There are also growing economic consequences around the country. Federal workers impacted by the shutdown have been given the option to apply for special loans in some cases, while consumer spending and local economies face pressure from suspended pay. The ultimate scope of the shutdown’s economic impact will depend on its duration and the administrative choices made during this period. Compensation for furloughed workers is not guaranteed, as Congress would need to pass legislation providing back pay. (Reuters/Axios)

Adding to the controversy, the Trump administration has made moves to intensify pressure on Democratic-led areas by freezing $2.1 billion in transit funding for Chicago. This action is part of a broader campaign to withhold more than $28 billion from predominantly Democratic states and cities, affecting a range of transit and green energy projects. (Reuters)

Public opinion surveys indicate that a slight majority of Americans currently hold Congress more responsible for the ongoing shutdown than President Trump, though both parties face significant public criticism. As negotiations continue without a breakthrough, and with little sign of an imminent resolution, millions of Americans await a decisive move to end the stalemate. (AP News summary)