The US government shutdown began Wednesday after President Donald Trump and Congress failed to agree on a budget. The deadlock put many services and programs at risk.
Around 750,000 federal workers now face furloughs or job losses. Agencies in education, environment, and other sectors have halted operations. Meanwhile, Trump pressed ahead with his deportation program and warned of lasting cuts targeting Democratic priorities.
Before the deadline, Trump said, “This is not what we want,” but talks still collapsed. This marks the third shutdown under his leadership, exposing the deep divide between Republicans and Democrats.
Republicans back Trump’s hard-line stance and refuse negotiations. Democrats demand funding to restore Affordable Care Act subsidies. The standoff has left Americans bracing for economic fallout, with job data and public services already uncertain.
The Pentagon, Medicare, and Medicaid remain active, but national parks, museums, and many offices will close. Both Senate proposals from Republicans and Democrats failed, and Democrats used their votes to push for health care relief.
Trump insists he will not back down, while GOP leaders blame Democrats for the crisis. Analysts warn this US government shutdown could drag on, recalling the 35-day record stoppage during Trump’s first term.
