Senators returned to the Capitol on Sunday, continuing negotiations to end the now 40-day government shutdown after a weekend of stalled talks and rising public frustration. Despite a rare Saturday session, lawmakers made little headway toward reopening federal agencies or providing relief to millions of Americans affected by the gridlock.
Negotiations Continue Amid Mounting Pressure
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said legislators would remain in session until a funding agreement is reached. He indicated that if Democrats agree to advance the House-approved short-term spending bill, Republicans would introduce an updated version with a later expiration date and include three full-year appropriations measures.
Senate Democrats, however, are holding firm on their own proposal to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits for another year — a sticking point that has slowed progress.
Shutdown Fallout Deepens
The effects of the prolonged shutdown are becoming increasingly severe. Over the weekend, the Trump administration directed states to halt efforts to issue Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for more than 40 million Americans. The decision sparked anger among advocacy groups who warn that low-income families could soon face food insecurity.
Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) scaled back flight operations at dozens of major airports because of staffing shortages. More than 1,000 flights were canceled Saturday — the second consecutive day of widespread disruptions — causing chaos for travelers nationwide.
Trump Faces Criticism Over Priorities
While lawmakers worked late into the weekend, President Trump drew sharp criticism for his personal schedule. Democrats accused him of being disconnected from the hardship facing ordinary Americans, noting his weekend at Mar-a-Lago and plans to attend Sunday’s Washington Commanders–Detroit Lions NFL game in Landover, Maryland.
Party leaders said the optics underscored a sense that Trump was more focused on leisure and publicity than governance. “Families can’t buy groceries, flights are grounded, and the president is out golfing and attending football games,” one Democratic senator remarked, calling the behavior “tone-deaf during a national crisis.”
The Stadium Speculation
Adding to the controversy, ESPN reported that Trump has expressed interest in having the Commanders’ new stadium named after him. Sources say he is expected to meet with team executives during the game to discuss the idea — a move critics argue highlights misplaced priorities as millions of Americans endure the shutdown’s economic toll.
As the standoff drags into its sixth week, frustration is building across party lines. Both sides face growing pressure to deliver a deal before the crisis deepens further and public patience runs out.