The U.S. federal government shutdown, now in its 18th day since October 1, 2025, has led to unpaid Capitol Police officers, frozen infrastructure funds, and a deadlock over Obamacare subsidies. Republicans blame Democrats for refusing to negotiate without extending pandemic-era health credits, while Democrats accuse the GOP of prioritizing politics over essential services. Impacts include paused projects in Democratic-leaning states and heightened tensions on Capitol Hill.
The shutdown began on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a spending extension before the fiscal year ended, despite a prior House-passed measure to fund through November 21. Republicans, holding 53 Senate seats, need 60 votes to advance legislation and require at least seven Democrats' support. Democrats have conditioned their backing on continuing enhanced Obamacare premium tax credits, expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic and set to expire at the end of 2025. These subsidies, used by over 90% of 24 million enrollees, could cost up to $30 billion annually if extended, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.
Republicans argue the credits were temporary pandemic relief and accuse Democrats of creating a 'pre-determined crisis' by including the sunset provision initially. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., noted that some recipients earn up to $300,000 yet receive subsidies, adding, 'The pandemic is over.' Democrats counter that millions would lose affordable insurance without them. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said, 'You have literally millions of Americans who will no longer be able to afford their health insurance.' Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, urged Republicans to 'restore healthcare to the American people.' Democrats have voted against reopening measures 10 times since the shutdown started.
The impasse has tangible effects. Over 2,000 Capitol Police officers missed their first full paycheck on October 10, amid rising threats to officials. Union chair Gus Papathanasiou stated, 'Banks and landlords do not give my officers a pass.' Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., blamed Democrats, saying officers are 'paying the price' with mortgages and families. Rep. Joe Morelle, D-N.Y., highlighted a lack of negotiations, calling some GOP fund repurposing 'patently illegal.' House Speaker Mike Johnson refuses to swear in Democratic Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva from Arizona, citing ceremony needs, though he swore in two Republicans earlier without a session.
The Trump administration froze $11 billion in Army Corps of Engineers projects, mostly in Democratic areas like New York ($7 billion), targeting lower-priority infrastructure such as the Hudson Tunnel, Second Avenue Subway, and Cape Cod bridges. OMB Director Russell Vought blamed the 'Democrat shutdown,' pausing funds to reorient priorities away from 'unconstitutional DEI principles.' Total frozen infrastructure and climate funds now exceed $28 billion. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul responded on X, 'Good luck with that, Russ. We’ll be in touch.' Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said efforts to balance coverage and costs have made 'not much headway.' Lawmakers left Washington for the weekend, with the Senate returning Monday.
