The federal government remains partially closed as lawmakers continue to struggle over funding, with impacts looming for federal workers and public programs.

Michigan Republican U.S. Representative Bill Huizenga says the U.S. House has passed a “clean” continuing resolution to maintain last year’s funding while negotiations continue. Huizenga criticized Senate Democrats, particularly Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, for failing to reach the 60 votes needed to approve the measure, calling the impasse a political fight that could affect programs including WIC, border security, and military payroll.

“I’m hopeful we don’t see a repeat of the month-long shutdown from the first Trump administration, but the politics are getting in the way of the policy,” Huizenga said.

He also noted he has voluntarily suspended his own pay during the shutdown and that his Michigan office remains open to assist constituents with federal issues.

Posting her side of the argument on social media, Democratic U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin emphasized that the Republican-backed funding bill passed in July, known as the “big, beautiful bill,” included permanent tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans while limiting healthcare funding. Slotkin said Democrats are ready to negotiate on alternatives but stressed that progress requires cooperation from the other side.

“So (President Trump) passed that and funded the government only until September 30th. I think on the Democratic side, we’re ready to have that conversation. We’re frankly throwing ourselves at them to have that conversation. We’re coming up with our own alternatives to show that, ‘Look, this is what we would like to see. Where can we start negotiating?’ But my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have to want a negotiation. So that’s what we’re waiting for.”

Lawmakers and the president have signaled that without an agreement, federal agencies could begin furloughs or other reductions in force once current funding runs out. Essential services, such as the Coast Guard, TSA, and border security, continue to operate, but delays and uncertainty are expected to grow in the coming weeks if the shutdown drags on.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) said Thursday that votes to reopen the government will happen again Friday.

“They’ll have a fourth chance tomorrow to vote to open up the government, and if that fails, we’ll give them the weekend to think about it, and then we’ll come back and vote on Monday.”