Summary
The U.S. government shutdown has started due to a disagreement between Republicans and Democrats over the budget. The White House says layoffs of federal workers will begin in two days if the situation continues. Both parties are blaming each other for the lack of progress in reaching a compromise.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government shutdown began because Congress couldn't agree on a new spending plan.
- Layoffs of federal workers are expected to start within two days due to the shutdown.
- The shutdown is the first in almost seven years.
- Republicans and Democrats are blaming each other for the impasse.
- Democrats want guarantees on healthcare funding before agreeing on a spending deal.
- Republicans want to use a temporary measure to keep the government open at current funding levels.
- Essential workers must work without pay, while non-essential workers are put on unpaid leave.
- Approximately 40% of federal workers, around 750,000 people, could be affected.
