U.S. Government Enters Shutdown Amid Political Standoff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The federal government officially shut down early Wednesday morning, October 1, 2025, after Congress and the White House could not reach an agreement on a continuing resolution to fund the government. This shutdown comes just as the new fiscal year begins.

The Senate’s last attempt to vote on funding legislation failed, which meant that without urgent action, government operations would halt. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed concerns about the anxiety many residents face regarding job security and upcoming paychecks as federal workers are furloughed.

Many critical programs and services will be affected during the shutdown. For instance, the Social Security Administration will continue to issue checks, but customer service may experience delays. Medicare and Medicaid will remain largely unaffected for current beneficiaries, while the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) could face funding shortages quickly.

Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities will remain operational, ensuring veterans continue to receive their benefits. However, active-duty military personnel, including those in the National Guard and reserves, will work without pay, although they are considered “excepted” employees during shutdowns.

On the consumer side, SNAP benefits may be impacted if the shutdown lasts. New applications for federal housing loans will not be processed, and the Small Business Administration will stop processing new business loans.

The U.S. Postal Service will continue to operate during the shutdown, and commercial air travel should not be significantly disrupted as air traffic controllers and TSA agents are required to work, again without immediate payment.

With past shutdowns lasting as long as 35 days, many Americans remain uncertain about how long this latest shutdown will continue. As federal agencies limit their operations, every day poses new challenges for those who rely on governmental services.

Officials urge the public to stay informed about potential impacts, and those in urgent need should contact their local representatives for assistance during this critical time.