A U.S. government shutdown is very likely to occur at midnight following the expiration of funding on September 30, 2025, due to the failure of Congress and President Donald Trump to reach an agreement on appropriations. Vice President JD Vance and White House leaders have indicated that shutdown is probable because of unresolved disputes between Republicans and Democrats, especially over healthcare funding and Medicaid cuts. Democrats are demanding extensions to healthcare subsidies and reversal of Medicaid cuts, which Republicans refuse to agree to. Without a last-minute deal, millions of federal employees, including military personnel, could face furloughs and missed paychecks, with some essential workers still required to work without pay during the shutdown. There is also a risk of permanent job cuts as the Trump administration is reportedly preparing plans for mass firings beyond typical furloughs. The government shutdown would result in closures of national parks, museums, and delays in certain services, with retroactive pay expected for federal workers once funding is restored.
