The U.S. is in the midst of a record-breaking crisis, with the government shutdown now the longest in the nation's history. But what does this mean for Americans?
The stalemate began on October 1st, when Congress failed to pass a spending bill, leaving federal workers in limbo. This shutdown has surpassed the previous record-holder, which occurred during the Trump administration in 2018-2019, lasting 35 days. That shutdown was sparked by a dispute over funding for a border wall, and it ended with a compromise after significant disruptions to air travel and an estimated $3 billion loss in GDP.
But here's where it gets controversial: This time, the shutdown has already exceeded 36 days, and there's no end in sight. Republicans, who control both chambers, need 60 votes to pass a spending bill in the Senate. Democrats are leveraging this to demand an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies, which could impact millions of Americans' health insurance. Republicans are willing to discuss, but only after the government reopens.
The Senate has attempted to pass a stopgap funding bill 14 times, to no avail. The House, meanwhile, has been inactive since the shutdown began. Over a million federal employees are working without pay, and around 600,000 are furloughed. President Trump's comments have cast doubt on whether they will receive backpay as promised.
The consequences are far-reaching: Air traffic control shortages cause delays at airports, national parks reduce operations, and Smithsonian museums close their doors. The IRS furloughs half its staff, affecting taxpayer services. Low-income children may lose access to Head Start, and federal food benefits like SNAP have been disrupted, sparking outcry and legal action.
President Trump blames Democrats and calls for Senate Republicans to bypass them, but they have refused. Trump, who helped end the previous shutdown, seems less inclined to compromise this time.
As the shutdown continues, the question remains: How much longer will Americans endure the fallout from this political impasse? And what will it take to reach a resolution?
