The U.S. government shutdown entered its 22nd day on Wednesday, making it the second longest lapse in federal funds in history, with no end in sight.
This milestone means the two longest shutdowns both occurred during President Donald Trump’s tenure.
The longest shutdown began in December 2018, during the Trump administration’s first term, and lasted nearly five weeks. The closures stemmed from controversy over funding for President Trump’s controversial immigration policies.
The government shutdown stems from Senate Democrats refusing to vote on a short-term government funding bill proposed by Republicans, citing insufficient funding for health care and other additional spending.
A stopgap bill backed by Republicans would have resumed funding at current levels through Nov. 21, but failed for the 12th time to pass in the Senate Wednesday night. The 54-46 vote was decided largely along party lines.
Republicans hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate. But 60 votes are needed to pass the funding bill.
Democrats want a funding bill to extend the expansion of tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, which could otherwise significantly increase health insurance premiums for millions of Americans in 2026. These tax credits are scheduled to expire at the end of the year.
Republicans have accused Democrats of holding the government hostage and have refused to negotiate on health care issues until the shutdown is over.
A Republican-backed bill that would have provided funding only to the U.S. military failed in a vote last Thursday.
“We’ve negotiated. We don’t know what to negotiate,” Senate Minority Leader John Thune (D) said after meeting with President Trump at the White House on Tuesday.
“This is about opening up the government,” Thun said. “We’ve offered them several exits so far. Democrats want something completely untenable.”
Democratic leaders in Congress have called for a meeting with President Trump to engage in negotiations to resolve the shutdown.
Asked if Trump would talk to Democrats, Thune told reporters: “Someday, but first we’ll open up the government.”
