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Shutdown Debate: Politics And Bargaining Chips

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The U.S. Capitol is seen in Washington, Monday, June 17, 2013. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)
(J. Scott Applewhite/AP)

Update 2:25 p.m. via Associated Press: The Democratic-led Senate has rejected conditions that House Republicans attached to a temporary spending bill.


Over the weekend, the House passed a bill that would keep the government running, while delaying full implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where it's expected to be rejected.

As lawmakers continue to haggle over how to avert a government shutdown — which would be the first in nearly two decades — there are a number of bargaining chips on the table. They include a medical device tax and the board created to try to keep Medicare costs low.

If Congress can't come up with a deal by midnight, the government will shutdown.

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To hear the interview with NPR's Ron Elving, play the audio at the top of the page.

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This segment aired on September 30, 2013.

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