US government shutdown begins as Congress fails to reach funding deal

The US government has entered a partial shutdown after Congress failed to reach a consensus on a spending bill before the Sep 30 midnight deadline.

This marks the first government shutdown in years and comes amid intense political standoffs between President Donald Trump and lawmakers over budget priorities.

Federal agencies without approved funding have halted non-essential operations, while essential services such as military operations, air traffic control, and emergency medical services continue to function.

However, around 800,000 federal employees are expected to either work without pay or be furloughed until a resolution is reached.

The deadlock stems from sharp divisions over spending allocations and policy riders, with Trump pressing for higher defense spending and stricter immigration enforcement measures, while Democrats and some Republicans opposed cuts to social programs and sought more balanced funding.

The shutdown’s impact is already visible in Washington, with national parks closing, federal offices shuttered, and agencies preparing for prolonged disruption.

Economists have warned that an extended shutdown could affect economic growth, delay federal payments, and increase instability in global markets.

Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days, but there is little indication of a breakthrough. Trump has maintained a firm stance, saying he will not compromise on core demands, while opposition leaders have accused him of holding the government “hostage” to political bargaining.

This shutdown adds to a series of contentious budget battles in recent years and underscores the growing polarization in US politics.

Unless an agreement is reached soon, the standoff could deepen, affecting not only government operations but also public confidence in federal institutions.