The American government is shutting down because Congress and President Donald Trump's administration failed to reach an agreement on a spending bill to fund the federal government beyond the fiscal year deadline. The main contention is between the Republican majority, led by Trump, and the Democrats, who want to include provisions to continue health care tax credits and reverse Medicaid cuts. Republicans oppose these measures and are also seeking significant budget cuts. The Democrats have refused to support the Republican spending bill, leading to a political stalemate. This impasse means that without a passed funding bill, the government ceases non-essential services and furloughs many federal employees starting from midnight at the beginning of October 1, 2025. Essential services continue but many employees work without pay until the deadlock is resolved. This is the first shutdown in nearly seven years, with the last one during Trump's first term lasting 35 days. The shutdown reflects deep partisan divisions, with both sides blaming each other for the failure to compromise and reopen the government.
