2,000 workers idled by Congress impasse

WASHINGTON (AP) — Jobless benefits suddenly ended for some laid-off workers, Medicare payments to doctors were delayed and 2,000 federal transportation workers were sent home today in a spending dispute tinged with election-year politics.

Democrats seized on the impasse to portray Republicans as obstructionists willing to block popular programs that create jobs and provide relief to the unemployed.

Adding its voice to the flap, the White House said it was trying to "shame" Republican Sen. Jim Bunning of Kentucky for single-handedly blocking the $10 billion extension.

In fact, it appeared the spat would have little impact on ordinary Americans because lawmakers expect to resolve the dispute this week.

But in the meantime, 41 highway projects were to be shut down because federal inspectors were off the job, and the Obama administration ordered Medicare billing contractors not to pay any claims from doctors for the first 10 business days of March.

Most laid-off workers receiving unemployment benefits won't be affected — unless the impasse drags on — but those seeking payment extensions won't be able to obtain them.

"Six times last week, Democrats asked to extend their unemployment benefits for a short time while they work on a longer extension. Six times, Republicans said no," said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. "The Republicans in the Senate are standing between these families and the help they need while these benefits expire."