Shutdown Status & Deal Progress
- The shutdown began on October 1 and is now at day 41.
- A bipartisan deal involving Republicans, President Trump, and eight moderate Democrats is close to passing.
- The deal would:
  - Reopen the government until January 30.
  - Fund programs like SNAP (food stamps), veterans benefits, and other federal services.
  - Reverse layoffs of federal workers and block further firings until January 30.
  - Commit to a future vote on extending Obamacare subsidies.
Impact on Air Travel
- there are severe flight cancellations and delays due to air traffic controller shortages.
- FAA ordered airlines to cut flights by 4%, with Delta canceling nearly 500 flights and United following similar measures.
- President Trump ordered all air traffic controllers back to work and threatened pay docking for absentees, while promising $10,000 bonuses for those who worked through the shutdown.
Political Dynamics
- Democrats are deliberately prolonging the shutdown for leverage.
- Internal Democratic Party civil war:
  - Criticism of Chuck Schumer’s leadership.
  - Calls from Democrats and media figures for Schumer to step down.
  - Growing influence of progressive wing (e.g., Bernie Sanders, AOC faction).
- Republicans argue Democrats used Americans as “leverage” in a political game.

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