The United States government has shut down after lawmakers failed to pass a funding bill before the deadline, forcing thousands of federal workers onto unpaid leave and suspending several government services.
Gatekeepers News reports that the shutdown, the first since 2018, followed a Senate deadlock over a short-term spending package. Republicans, with 53 seats, pushed for a “clean” resolution to keep the government open, but fell short of the 60 votes needed. Democrats withheld support, demanding protection for healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans and a reversal of Trump administration cuts to Medicaid.
Earlier, President Donald Trump threatened “irreversible” mass firings of federal employees if the shutdown went ahead. While essential staff such as law enforcement officers and air traffic controllers will remain on duty, many will do so without pay. Non-essential workers have been placed on furlough, while members of Congress will continue receiving their salaries.
Global markets showed little immediate reaction, though analysts warned prolonged political gridlock could dent investor confidence.
Both Republicans and Democrats traded blame for the crisis. Republicans accused Democrats of holding the budget “hostage,” while Democrats said Republicans ignored urgent funding needs in healthcare.
The Senate is expected to reconvene later today at 10:00 local time (15:00 BST / 14:00 GMT) in a fresh bid to break the impasse. The shutdown will remain in effect until a new funding bill is passed.
