Senate Democrats rejected a Republican effort aimed at approving military funding and paying troops while the government remains in shutdown, dealing another blow on Day 16 of the funding impasse.
The measure, which would have directed funds to the Pentagon and guaranteed active-duty salaries, failed to advance due to lack of support in the Senate. GOP leaders argued it represented a targeted way to partially reopen government operations.
Democrats countered that piecemeal funding ignored critical domestic priorities and demanded a full, bipartisan agreement that includes healthcare and other programs.
With both sides dug in, the standoff shows no signs of ending imminently, leaving military funding and broader government operations at continued risk.