Senate Bill to Pay Federal Workers Fails 54-45 Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

Washington D.C. – A legislative effort to ensure federal employees receive pay during the ongoing government shutdown failed to advance in the Senate on October 23, 2025, with a vote of 54-45. The outcome has intensified partisan debate as the federal government remains partially closed since October 1. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) highlighted the development on social media, stating, "> The Schumer Shutdown continues. Yesterday, we voted to pay government workers, and almost all Democrats voted no."

The "Shutdown Fairness Act," sponsored by Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), aimed to appropriate funds for "excepted" federal employees, military members, and contractors who continue to work without immediate compensation. Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), expressed frustration over the bill's failure, asserting that Democrats were obstructing efforts to compensate essential personnel. Thune remarked that Democrats "consistently come down here and vote against paying people who are working."

Democrats largely opposed the Republican-led measure, arguing it was too narrow and granted the administration excessive discretion in determining who would receive pay. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) criticized the bill, suggesting it would "allow Donald Trump to pay who he likes and not pay who he doesn't like." Democrats advocated for broader legislation that would cover all federal workers, including those on furlough, and restrict potential mass layoffs.

The current federal government shutdown, now in its fourth week, began on October 1, 2025, following a congressional impasse over appropriations for the 2026 fiscal year. Disagreements primarily revolve around federal spending levels, foreign aid rescissions, and health insurance subsidies, leading to the furlough of approximately 900,000 federal employees and leaving millions more working without pay. The protracted stalemate has caused significant disruptions, including concerns over air travel delays and potential impacts on critical programs like SNAP benefits.

Senator Cruz's commentary on the vote was featured on "Verdict with Ted Cruz," a conservative political podcast co-hosted by Michael Knowles and produced by The Daily Wire, which frequently offers analysis on current political events. As the shutdown continues, pressure mounts on both parties to find a resolution that addresses the financial strain on federal employees and the broader impact on government services.