Government Shutdown 2025: Federal Workers Furloughed After Congress Stalemate

The federal government officially entered a partial shutdown early Wednesday after lawmakers failed to reach a funding agreement before the midnight deadline, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal employees facing furloughs or working without pay.

Deadlock in Congress

A short-term spending measure known as a continuing resolution (CR), which would have extended current government funding levels through November 21, passed the House earlier this month but collapsed in the Senate. Democrats opposed the measure, citing frustration at being excluded from negotiations and demanding the inclusion of extended healthcare subsidies set to expire in 2025.

Republican leaders argued Democrats were holding the government hostage over more than $1 trillion in new spending. GOP lawmakers insisted those healthcare provisions could be revisited later in the year.

Impact on Workers and Services

With no deal in place, the White House budget office directed federal agencies to begin shutdown procedures. That means roughly 750,000 employees could be furloughed daily, while others must continue working without pay. Active-duty service members will also go without pay until funding is restored.

Essential services like air traffic control and law enforcement remain operational, but national landmarks such as the Capitol Visitor Center, Library of Congress, and U.S. Botanic Garden will be closed to visitors. Congressional delegation trips abroad are also suspended.

Some offices may face permanent layoffs, as federal agencies were advised earlier this month to prepare contingency plans in the event of a prolonged shutdown.

Political Fallout

The shutdown has sparked a war of words between party leaders. Republicans have accused Democrats of jeopardizing government operations for political gain, while Democrats insist they remain open to a bipartisan compromise.

Analysts warn that the longer the shutdown lasts, the greater the economic toll. The Congressional Budget Office estimates daily costs of around $400 million in lost compensation for furloughed workers, a figure that could fluctuate depending on the scale of layoffs.

Until Congress finds a solution, the federal government will continue operating in limited capacity, with millions of Americans caught in the middle.

Stay tuned for more details. This story is still developing