Despite a failed Senate vote on a Republican measure to immediately pay essential federal workers during the ongoing government shutdown, lawmakers remain optimistic about reaching a bipartisan agreement to fund federal employees soon. The Senate Democrats blocked the 'Shutdown Fairness Act,' which aimed to provide immediate pay to all federal workers, citing concerns that it would give President Trump broad authority to decide which employees receive compensation. The vote ended 54-45, falling short of the 60 votes needed to advance the bill. Some Democrats proposed alternative bills, including the 'True Shutdown Fairness Act' and the 'Military and Federal Employee Protection Act,' which would ensure retroactive pay and prevent layoffs, but these were also rejected by Republicans. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) expressed hope that a bipartisan deal could be reached over the weekend to address federal pay issues and potentially reopen the government. Meanwhile, many federal employees face their first missed paychecks, although federal law guarantees retroactive pay once the shutdown ends. The White House has questioned the legality of some pay guarantees, leading to ongoing disputes. The shutdown has persisted into its 23rd day, with neither side showing signs of compromise. The political impasse continues to impact federal workers, with some lawmakers emphasizing the need to end the shutdown rather than focus solely on pay legislation.