As the U.S. government shutdown ties the historical record, local election results—including the New York City mayoral race—are set to be announced on Tuesday, potentially reshaping Washington's political landscape and removing a key obstacle to bipartisan compromise.
The closely watched elections involve gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia, as well as the New York mayoral contest. Once finalized, both parties will swiftly pivot to preparing for next year's midterms, where control of Congress is at stake. It remains unclear whether Tuesday's outcomes will deepen partisan divisions or encourage greater willingness to negotiate.
Some Republicans argue that Democrats have taken a hardline stance on the shutdown to avoid alienating progressive voters before the elections. However, a decisive Democratic victory could bolster their confidence. With Trump's resurgence, Democrats already face limited opportunities to influence federal policy.
On October 21, Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed reporters at the White House, expressing optimism about ending the shutdown this week. Thune noted that the previously set November 21 deadline might no longer suffice, as Senate Democrats have rejected the House's temporary funding bill roughly 13 times.
The South Dakota Republican revealed plans to advance a new, longer-term stopgap funding bill this week, buying time for full-year budget negotiations. The bill could offer Democrats opportunities to push for back pay for furloughed federal employees or other labor protections—measures repeatedly targeted under the Trump administration.
Meanwhile, Democrats continue to insist that any shutdown resolution must address the expiration of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Starting November 1, about 22 million Americans must re-enroll in health insurance, with many facing steep premium hikes effective January 1.
"Democrats have been crystal clear from the beginning," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Monday. "We want to lower healthcare costs, reopen the government, and extend ACA subsidies."
House Speaker Mike Johnson has not reconvened the chamber since September 19. Should the Senate pass a differing bill, House members would need to return for votes—complicating shutdown resolution efforts. The narrowly Republican-held House opposes extending ACA subsidies in temporary funding measures.
"Republicans won't accept Democrats' absurd demands," Johnson stated earlier Monday.
As the Washington stalemate persists, public impacts intensify. Airport disruptions due to staffing shortages may worsen if federal paychecks remain suspended. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned he would "close U.S. airspace" if safety risks emerge.
Separately, the Trump administration told a federal judge it would comply with a court order to fund November's food assistance program—but at only 50% of normal levels. Official data shows approximately 22 million households (over 42 million people) rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Full November funding requires $8-9 billion, while only $4.65 billion remains in emergency reserves.