New Delhi, March 3 -- With less than two weeks remaining before the March 14 deadline, Republicans and Democrats in the US Congress have yet to reach a deal to prevent a government shutdown. The impasse threatens to throw Washington into deeper turmoil as lawmakers struggle to find common ground on spending measures.

Both parties cite President Donald Trump's budget policies as a major sticking point in negotiations. His administration has ignored past spending laws, suspended foreign aid, and laid off tens of thousands of federal workers.

Democrats argue they need guarantees to prevent further layoffs or program cuts. "We will continue to make clear that the law has to be followed," said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

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