UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced an urgent call for Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster in a bid to end the ongoing government shutdown, which is now in its 31st day. This unprecedented move, known as the “nuclear option,” would allow the GOP to pass a House-approved continuing resolution without the need for bipartisan support.
The filibuster currently requires 60 votes to advance most legislation in the Senate, but a change to the rules can be enacted with a simple majority. Trump’s push comes as the government shutdown threatens to extend further into next week, with the Senate scheduled to adjourn until Monday.
The implications are dire: tens of millions of Americans are poised to lose access to food assistance as funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is set to expire. Officials warn that without action, vital services will be disrupted, impacting families nationwide.
As the clock ticks down, bipartisan discussions among senators are expected to continue over the weekend, but many GOP senators have historically resisted ending the filibuster, citing its role in fostering compromise.
In a related development, two dozen states have filed lawsuits demanding the Trump administration utilize contingency funds to sustain SNAP funding amid the shutdown crisis.
With millions of Americans relying on these critical services, the urgency to find a resolution has never been greater. As negotiations unfold, the nation watches closely to see if Trump’s call to action will resonate with Senate Republicans.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.
