Shutdown Worsens as Congress Fails to Reach Agreement

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The government shutdown, now entering its third week, is causing profound disruptions as Congress remains deadlocked over funding. With no votes scheduled in the Senate until Tuesday, the lack of compromise means that federal workers are facing furloughs and layoffs.

During a press briefing, House Speaker Mike Johnson warned that the impasse could lead to one of the longest shutdowns in U.S. history. Johnson insisted that he would not engage in negotiations with Democrats until they drop their demands related to healthcare policy, a central issue in the ongoing conflict.

More than 1.4 million federal employees have already been affected, with some agencies, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, issuing reduction-in-force notices. This has resulted in significant job losses, with experts warning of the long-term impacts on essential services.

President Donald Trump stated that while he is prepared to divert funds to ensure military personnel are paid on time, he blamed Democrats for the ongoing shutdown, suggesting they hold responsibility for the crisis. He indicated that any cuts to federal jobs would target programs aligned with Democratic priorities.

In response to the growing crisis, Transport Secretary Sean Duffy announced plans for “necessary cuts” at both the Department of Transportation and NASA. Duffy emphasized the need for budgetary restraints amid rising operational demands linked to the shutdown.

Meanwhile, the Smithsonian Institution announced it would temporarily close its 21 museums and the National Zoo due to funding shortfalls stemming from the government shutdown. The institution relies heavily on federal funding for its operations.

As a result of dwindling resources, discussions around the funding of essential healthcare programs have heated up, with Democrats seeking an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies. Republicans, however, have stated they will not negotiate on these issues until after the government has reopened.

With the political stalemate showing no immediate signs of resolution, the consequences of the shutdown are deeply felt as it disrupts vital public services and threatens the livelihoods of thousands of federal employees.