Sen. Merkley's 23-Hour Protest Speech Highlights Shutdown Crisis

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley spoke for over 22 hours on the Senate floor to protest President Trump's policies and the government shutdown, making it one of the longest speeches in Senate history. His protest was part of Democratic efforts to pressure Republicans to negotiate on expiring health subsidies, highlighting concerns over authoritarian tendencies and government cuts. The speech also drew criticism from Republican senators for its impact on Senate staff and support workers.