The U.S. government shutdown began on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass appropriations legislation to fund the government for the new fiscal year. The shutdown resulted from a partisan deadlock between Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including President Donald Trump, over disagreements on federal spending levels, foreign aid cuts, and health insurance subsidy extensions under the Affordable Care Act. Key reasons for the shutdown include:
- Democrats insisting on continuing enhanced tax credits for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act and opposing Medicaid cuts and budget reductions to health agencies.
- Republicans proposing a short-term spending bill extending funding to mid-November but without the healthcare provisions demanded by Democrats.
- Republicans hold the majority but lack the 60 votes needed in the Senate to overcome a filibuster and pass the funding bill.
- President Trump and congressional leaders failed to reach a compromise before the funding deadline.
As a result, roughly 900,000 federal employees were furloughed, with another 700,000 working without pay. Essential government functions related to public safety and critical services continue operating, but many agencies and programs, particularly in health and research, face partial or full shutdowns. The situation reflects a deep political impasse and unusual willingness from the administration to let the government remain closed longer than typical past shutdowns, potentially allowing permanent workforce reductions.
