In a stunning move that shocked Washington insiders, Senate Republicans voted along party lines to defeat the Protecting American Families Act, which Democrats said would have helped millions.
"This is a dark day for democracy," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, calling Republican opposition "a betrayal of the American people." Schumer vowed to bring the legislation back before the midterms.
Policy experts warned the consequences could be catastrophic for working families. "Republicans have chosen their extreme agenda over the needs of ordinary Americans," said Dr. Patricia Wells.