On August 1, 2025 The U.S. government has shut down after the Senate failed to pass a short-term funding bill.
A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass a new budget or a continuing resolution to fund federal agencies. Without these funds, non-essential government functions cease, and millions of government employees are either placed on unpaid leave or continue to work without pay.
WHY DOES IT HAPPEN? – Sputnik explains
Budget Deadlock: If Congress cannot agree on a federal budget for the new fiscal year, the government cannot legally spend money.
Political Gridlock: Disagreements over spending priorities, policies, or political pressure can cause a stalemate.
Impact on Services: Essential services, like military, healthcare, and border security, may continue but without pay. Non-essential services, like national parks, museums, and certain government offices, close temporarily.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A SHUTDOWN?
Unpaid Leave: Many government employees (including administrative workers, researchers, and office staff) are sent home without pay.
Essential Workers: Healthcare workers, military personnel, and law enforcement remain on duty but don’t receive wages until the shutdown ends.
Government Services Impacted: Agencies like the IRS, NASA, and national parks may reduce operations or shut down completely.
Public Confidence: A shutdown erodes trust in the government and can harm the economy due to decreased consumer confidence and halted government contracts.
RECENT SHUTDOWNS
The 2018-2019 shutdown lasted 35 days and was the longest in US history, largely due to disputes over President Trump’s demand for a border wall.
A shutdown can have serious consequences: disrupting daily life, costing billions, and damaging the economy. It is resolved once Congress and the President reach an agreement on funding, but the political fallout can last long after the shutdown ends.
