Summary
The U.S. began a federal government shutdown after the Senate did not pass a funding bill before the deadline. Federal agencies are reducing services and furloughing workers until Democrats and Republicans agree on a solution. Essential services like Social Security are not affected.
Key Facts
- The government shutdown began because the Senate could not pass a funding bill in time.
- Federal workers are facing unpaid leave until a funding solution is reached.
- Essential services funded by mandatory spending, such as Social Security, continue without interruptions.
- President Trump warned of layoffs if the government shuts down and plans to remove certain programs he associates with Democrats.
- Republicans and Democrats blame each other for the shutdown.
- Democrats want to extend subsidies for Obamacare, focusing on rising health care costs.
- Republicans offered a temporary funding bill for seven weeks to keep the government running.
- Senate leaders have differing views on how to resolve the shutdown, with no negotiations planned until the government is reopened.
