Senate Deadlock Deepens as Federal Government Shutdown Enters Sixth Day

The federal government shutdown has stretched into its sixth day, with no breakthrough in sight. Once again, the U.S. Senate failed to pass competing funding bills from Democrats and Republicans, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal employees in limbo.

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Who Controls the Senate Right Now?

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At the heart of the stalemate lies a deeply divided Senate. Many Americans are asking, who controls the Senate right now? While Democrats maintain a narrow majority, major spending bills still require 60 votes to pass meaning bipartisan support is essential. The lack of cooperation has resulted in repeated gridlock, keeping the government partially shut down for nearly a week.

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On Monday, the Democrats’ funding bill failed with a 45-55 vote, and the Republican proposal was rejected 52-42. Both fell short of the 60-vote threshold.

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President Trump’s Warning and Ongoing Discussions

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President Donald Trump warned that continued legislative failures could lead to federal layoffs. However, he noted that his administration is still in discussions with Democratic leaders regarding the extension of Obamacare subsidies. Trump stated that “progress is slow but ongoing,” though Democrats have not confirmed any substantial movement.

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Trump to Host Canadian Prime Minister

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Despite the shutdown, Trump’s diplomatic calendar remains active. He is scheduled to host Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House on Tuesday. The meeting aims to strengthen economic and security cooperation between the U.S. and Canada even as domestic operations face disruption due to the funding deadlock. Do you know about the trump sue

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What Bill Passed Today in the House?

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Many are wondering, what bill passed today in the House? Earlier, the House passed a short-term funding measure aimed at temporarily reopening the government. However, that bill must still clear the Senate, where bipartisan disagreement continues to block progress. Without Senate approval, the measure cannot take effect, prolonging the federal government shutdown.

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Air Traffic Control and Transportation Disruptions

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The effects of the shutdown are becoming more visible across the country. Staffing shortages among federal employees have disrupted air traffic control operations nationwide.

• Burbank Airport, near Los Angeles, briefly went “ATC ZERO,” halting normal air operations.
  
  
• Newark, Denver, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Phoenix have also reported temporary slowdowns.
  
  These disruptions highlight how the shutdown is straining public safety and transportation infrastructure.

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Trade Policy and Tariffs

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In a separate development, President Trump announced a 25% tariff on all medium and heavy-duty truck imports, effective November 1, 2025. The White House says the move is intended to support U.S. manufacturing and reduce trade imbalances.

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Trump’s Executive Order on Alaska Mining

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Trump also signed an executive order reversing a Biden-era restriction, opening Alaska’s Ambler Mining District for new development. The administration argues that the region’s rich mineral deposits can drive economic growth and strengthen energy independence. Environmental groups, however, have criticized the decision for its potential ecological impact.

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Negotiations with Democrats

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Although the President has expressed a willingness to negotiate, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that there are “no active negotiations at this time.” Schumer accused the administration of posturing instead of offering realistic funding solutions.

Trump responded by urging Democrats to return to the table, saying that “the American people deserve a functioning government.”

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Federal Workforce Uncertainty

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So far, no federal workers have been laid off, but thousands remain furloughed. Agencies are operating with limited staff, and some federal services have slowed significantly. The White House has warned that if the federal government shutdown continues, layoffs could become inevitable.

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Ceasefire Efforts in Gaza

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Meanwhile, international diplomacy continues despite the shutdown. The White House confirmed that U.S. Special Envoys are in talks to facilitate a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza. Progress remains slow, but officials say discussions are ongoing through technical channels.

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National Guard Deployment Blocked

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In another development, a federal judge blocked the deployment of the California National Guard to Portland. The White House called the decision “deeply flawed,” claiming it hampers efforts to support local law enforcement.

The Road Ahead

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As the federal government shutdown drags on, frustration grows among federal employees and citizens who depend on essential services. Both chambers of Congress appear entrenched, with neither side willing to compromise.

Until the Senate reaches a bipartisan agreement, the government will remain partially closed affecting everything from air travel to public programs.

The pressing questions remain unanswered: Who controls the Senate right now? What bill passed today in the House? And most importantly — when will the government reopen?

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DESCLAIMER:

This article is for informational purposes only and summarizes current news events and public statements as of October 2025. It does not represent official legal, political, or financial advice. The situation involving the U.S. government shutdown is rapidly evolving; readers are encouraged to consult official government sources or reputable news outlets for the most up-to-date information. No endorsement of any political party, government action, or policy position is implied.

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Reference - ABC news