Content by: Wendy Busse-Coleman
As of November 2, 2025, the federal government has been shut down for over a month, making it the second longest in U.S. history. While politicians argue and delay decisions, millions of Americans are feeling the impact. From food aid to missed paychecks, this isn't just politics—it’s affecting real people’s lives.
🧭 What Democrats Are Holding Out For
The Democratic leadership has prioritized the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies, which are currently scheduled to expire. Absent legislative action, it is projected that a significant number of Americans may experience substantial increases in their health insurance premiums, potentially reaching levels as high as 75% (1)(2).
They're also pushing for:
- Protections for federal workers, including guarantees against mass layoffs
- Safeguards for nutrition programs like SNAP, which are at risk of running out of funds (3)(4)
- A vote on ACA subsidies before reopening the government, not after
🛑 What Republicans Want
Republicans have approved several bills in the House to get the government running again, but these bills are stuck in the Senate.
Their position is that:
- The government should reopen first, and then policy debates like healthcare subsidies can follow
- ACA subsidies are a separate issue, better suited for December negotiations
- The filibuster should remain intact, despite President Trump's call to eliminate it and push through funding without bipartisan support (5)(6)
🍽️ What’s Really at Risk
This isn't just a political standoff. It's a humanitarian one. If the shutdown continues:
- SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans could be halted (3)(4)
- Over 775,000 federal workers remain furloughed or unpaid
- Air Traffic controllers, TSA agents, and military personnel are working without pay, risking safety and morale (8)(9)
- Healthcare premiums could skyrocket, especially for low- and middle-income families (1)(2)
💬 What We Can’t Afford to Lose
Irrespective of political affiliation, it is imperative to ensure that food assistance programs remain uninterrupted, healthcare costs are effectively managed, and federal employees receive their compensation without delay. These are not partisan privileges; they constitute fundamental responsibilities of a government committed to serving its citizens.
It is imperative to emphasize that while reopening the government is a matter of urgency, it is equally vital to safeguard the programs that provide critical support to families. Implementing a temporary measure that overlooks the potential long-term consequences does not constitute a viable solution; rather, it merely postpones addressing the underlying issues.
SOURCES:
(1) FACTUALLY.CO
(2) CNBC
(3) CBS NEWS
(4) USA TODAY
(5) FOX NEWS
(6) POLITICO
(7) RIVERBENDER.COM
(8) YAHOOL
(9) AOL
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