U.S. government shutdown starts after funding bill fails
The U.S. federal government entered a shutdown on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass a spending bill to fund operations. Partisan disagreements between Republicans and Democrats stalled negotiations, leading to furloughs for non-essential workers. The shutdown's duration remains uncertain, echoing past political standoffs.
The shutdown commenced at midnight on October 1, 2025, when lawmakers could not reach an agreement on a continuing resolution to extend federal funding beyond the fiscal year's end. According to NPR reports, the impasse stemmed from disputes over spending priorities, including aid for disaster relief and agricultural programs. Republicans pushed for lower spending levels, while Democrats sought additional funding for social services and recovery efforts.
In the Senate, Democrats blocked a Republican-proposed funding bill for the third time, as detailed by Fox News, prolonging the deadlock. This action highlighted the partisan divide, with GOP leaders accusing Democrats of obstructing a clean funding measure. NPR coverage noted that negotiations broke down late on September 30, 2025, despite last-minute talks.
Historically, government shutdowns have varied in length. NPR's analysis referenced the 2018-2019 shutdown, the longest on record at 35 days, caused by similar immigration and border wall disputes. Shorter shutdowns, like those in 1995-1996, lasted weeks and disrupted services. The current shutdown's potential duration is unknown, depending on whether Congress can compromise soon.
Impacts are already being felt. Fox News outlined effects on key areas: Social Security payments will continue for current beneficiaries, but new claims may face delays. Airports and air traffic control remain operational with essential staff, though some services could slow. Food stamp programs, or SNAP, are funded through March 2025, avoiding immediate cuts, but longer shutdowns might strain state resources.
Furloughs affect hundreds of thousands of federal employees, who must pause work without pay until funding resumes. National parks and museums are closing to visitors, and research grants are halted. Both parties expressed regret but blamed the other side. A Republican senator stated, per Fox News, that Democrats' blockade was 'irresponsible,' while a Democratic leader told NPR that GOP cuts threatened vital programs.
The shutdown underscores ongoing budget battles in a divided Congress, with implications for the economy and public services if it extends beyond days.