why are republicans shutting down the government

Republicans are shutting down the U.S. government primarily due to a funding deadlock with Democrats over budget priorities, especially regarding healthcare policies. Republicans put forth a short-term funding bill to keep the government operating until November 21, but Democrats opposed it because they want extensions of health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act and reversals of Medicaid cuts Republicans support. The failure of both parties to agree on a spending deal, combined with President Donald Trump's and Congressional Republicans' refusal to compromise on key demands like healthcare funding, led to the shutdown beginning October 1, 2025. The Republicans, although controlling both chambers, lack the 60 votes in the Senate needed to pass the bill, while Democrats hold firm on healthcare and other social program funding expansions. This impasse has resulted in furloughs and disruptions of federal services, with both sides blaming each other publicly for the shutdown.