With a midnight deadline looming, the United States faces its first government shutdown in nearly seven years as Democrats and Republicans remain locked in a standoff over federal spending and health care.

President Donald Trump warned that many federal workers could be laid off if a funding agreement is not reached. “We may do a lot and that’s only because of the Democrats,” Trump said, pointing to Democratic resistance as the reason for potential terminations.

Impasse over funding and health care

The impasse stems largely from Democrats’ demand to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits, which subsidize health insurance for millions and are set to expire at the end of the year. Republicans, led by Trump, insist on a “clean” funding bill without concessions.

“Democrats are fighting

See Full Page