Story perspectives

Senator Booker Backs Merkley's Stand Against Shutdown, Authoritarianism

10/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

Senator Cory Booker praised Jeff Merkley's nearly 24-hour speech opposing the government shutdown and warning against authoritarianism under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Merkley criticized Trump's deployment of the National Guard to urban areas, saying it threatens democratic norms.
The Senate remains deadlocked over funding as Democrats block a Republican short-term bill.
The shutdown has been ongoing since October 1, and has affected federal services and benefits for millions of Americans.

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Story summary

Senator Cory Booker praised Jeff Merkley's nearly 24-hour speech opposing the government shutdown and warning against authoritarianism under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Merkley criticized Trump's deployment of the National Guard to urban areas, saying it threatens democratic norms.
The Senate remains deadlocked over funding as Democrats block a Republican short-term bill.
The shutdown has been ongoing since October 1, and has affected federal services and benefits for millions of Americans.