US Government Shutdown Deepens Amid Senate Filibuster Debate

President Trump has called for the elimination of the Senate filibuster to end the ongoing government shutdown, arguing that removing this rule would allow Republicans to pass spending bills without needing Democratic support. The filibuster requires 60 votes to close debate on legislation, serving as a tool to protect minority rights and encourage bipartisan cooperation. However, many Senate Republicans, including Senator Mitch McConnell and Majority Leader John Thune, oppose scrapping the filibuster, fearing it could lead to political instability and frequent legislative swings with changes in party control. The shutdown, now in its fourth week, has left over 750,000 federal workers without pay and disrupted essential services, intensifying calls for a resolution. Democrats have been criticized by some Republicans for overplaying their hand during the negotiations, particularly over issues like enhanced ACA subsidies. The debate highlights the tension between maintaining traditional legislative procedures and the urgent need to restore government functions and market stability.