The largest union representing federal workers has called on Congress to pass a spending bill aimed at ending the government shutdown, aligning with President Trump and Republican leaders who have resisted Democratic proposals to restore health care funding. Everett Kelley, the president of the American Federation of Government Employees, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Both political parties have made their point, and still there is no clear end in sight. It’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship.”
This marks a significant change in the union’s stance. Prior to the shutdown, Kelley urged Republicans to engage with Democrats regarding health care initiatives, particularly concerning subsidies linked to the Affordable Care Act. These subsidies are vital for many Americans, preventing increases in premiums and loss of coverage. Throughout the year, the union has worked closely with Democratic lawmakers to resist Trump’s policies, which include significant cuts to the federal workforce and the dismissal of career civil servants.
However, as the impact of the shutdown intensifies, with approximately 730,000 federal workers working without pay and another 670,000 furloughed, the political dynamics have shifted. Senate Democrats have blocked measures that would pay civil servants currently working without compensation, a tactic that could enhance their negotiating position. Conversely, Republicans have stalled Democratic proposals designed to compensate both active and furloughed federal employees.
The union’s recent call for action highlights a growing frustration among federal workers who are feeling the strain of the prolonged shutdown. It underscores the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to address the pressing concerns of those impacted by these political standoffs.