The US Government Shutdown Takes a New Turn as Leaders from Both Parties Signal a Possible "Restart" for the First Time

On November 4th, following a nearly record-breaking government shutdown, there were indications on Monday that the U.S. Congress might finally be on the brink of bringing the shutdown to an end. Senate Republican and Democratic leaders engaged in discussions regarding a potential "exit plan" to address the current deadlock. The 34-day standoff between Congress and Trump has resulted in a series of federal projects being suspended, such as assistance to low-income Americans, the pay of U.S. soldiers, and airport operations. The new fiscal year commenced on October 1st, but legislation to fund such activities has not yet been enacted. Thousands of federal employees are currently on unpaid leave, and this struggle has also placed approximately $1.7 trillion in discretionary funding on hold, accounting for about one-third of the total annual expenditure of the United States. Since October 1st, Senate Republican and Democratic groups have held several sporadic private meetings in an attempt to find a way to resolve the Washington deadlock, but have thus far been unable to reach a final agreement. (Jinse)