The US federal government has shut down after lawmakers failed to reach a budget deal, triggering widespread disruption across the country. The shut down started at midnight local time on Wednesday (04:00 GMT).
About 750,000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed – temporarily forced to leave work without pay – and some potentially fired by the Trump administration. Many offices will be shuttered, perhaps permanently, as Trump promises to “do things that are irreversible, that are bad”.
The shutdown will temporarily halt some US government services and put the salaries of hundreds of thousands of government employees on hold.The standoff is expected to affect everything from jobs and travel to national parks and food assistance programs.
Air traffic controllers and TSA staff are considered essential, so they will continue working but without pay until the shutdown ends. During the 2018–19 shutdown, many called in sick, causing long queues and flight delays. Passport processing may also face delays, affecting international travelers.
Federal Workers and Contractors
About 40% of the federal workforce – 800,000 people – will be placed on unpaid leave. Essential staff will work without pay, while furloughed employees will likely receive back pay later. Contractors, however, typically do not. Agencies like the CDC and NIH are expected to halt research projects due to staff shortages.
National Parks and Zoos
Past shutdowns saw parks left open but unstaffed, leading to vandalism and littering. Park advocates urge full closures this time. Smithsonian museums will remain open briefly using reserve funds, but National Zoo webcams will go dark, though animals will still be cared for.
Health and Social Services
Medicare and Medicaid will continue, though service delays are possible. The National Flood Insurance Program will close, potentially stalling property sales. Food assistance programs face critical funding shortages, with WIC expected to run out quickly and SNAP at risk if the shutdown is prolonged.
The shutdown underscores the severe ripple effects of political gridlock—affecting citizens’ daily lives, government operations, and public services nationwide.
