The United States government has officially shut down after the Senate failed to agree on a last-minute funding plan on Tuesday night.
This marks the country’s first shutdown since late 2018, and it will put several government services on hold while leaving thousands of federal workers without pay.
President Donald Trump, before the vote, had warned of “irreversible” job cuts for federal employees if the shutdown went ahead.
A memo from the White House on Monday instructed agencies to “execute their plans for an orderly shutdown,” adding that the duration of the closure was uncertain.
While essential workers such as border security officers, hospital staff, law enforcement, and air traffic controllers will continue their duties, many will do so without pay. Other employees have been placed on unpaid leave.
The shutdown is already affecting federal services. Medicare and Medicaid will continue but could face delays due to fewer staff. The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is expected to quickly run out of funds. The National Flood Insurance Program has been suspended, which could disrupt property sales.
National parks will remain partly open, though groups like the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks have warned of possible risks to visitors and the environment.
Air travel may also face setbacks. Experts say long queues and delays are likely if unpaid air traffic controllers refuse to work.
The shutdown followed a deadlock in the Senate. Republicans, who control 53 seats, attempted to push through a “clean” continuing resolution to extend funding but needed at least 60 votes. Democrats refused to back the plan, insisting on healthcare provisions such as restoring Medicaid cuts and keeping subsidies for low-income insurance.
Republican Senator John Thune said his party “won’t be taken hostage,” while Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer accused Republicans of spreading “lies” instead of negotiating.
Despite the seriousness of the shutdown, global financial markets have so far reacted calmly, with analysts calling it a temporary disruption.
The standoff is expected to continue until both parties reach a deal to restore funding.
