By Amanda Castro and Shane Croucher
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The federal government shutdown entered its second day Wednesday with no resolution in sight, as dueling funding proposals failed in the Senate for the third time in two weeks. While essential services like Social Security and Medicare continue, a wide range of federal operations have ground to a halt, affecting millions of Americans and deepening partisan divisions.
What to Know:
- The Senate rejected both Democratic and Republican funding plans in separate votes, 53–47 and 55–45.
- Democrats are demanding health care concessions, including extended ACA subsidies and reversal of Medicaid cuts.
- President Trump has threatened permanent program cuts and federal workforce reductions if Democrats don’t concede.
- Key services disrupted include veterans’ assistance, CDC communications, Superfund cleanup, and civil litigation.
- National parks may soon close, and Friday’s jobs report could be delayed due to staffing gaps.
- Roughly 300,000 federal employees have left government service this year, compounding shutdown strain.
This live blog is now closed.
Oct 01, 2025 at 04:23 PM EDT
Gold prices surge amid U.S. shutdown and global uncertainty
PaulShlykov/stock.adobe.com
Gold prices are soaring as the U.S. enters its first government shutdown in nearly seven years, with spot gold closing at a record $3,858.45 per troy ounce Tuesday and futures nearing $3,900 by midday Wednesday. Investors are turning to precious metals as economic anxiety deepens, fueled by the shutdown and ongoing global tensions.
Since January, gold futures have climbed over 45%, while silver has surged more than 59%, trading near $48 per ounce. Analysts attribute the spike to market instability, rising inflation, and fallout from President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
The shutdown threatens to delay key economic data and furlough hundreds of thousands of federal workers, adding to investor unease. While gold is often seen as a haven, experts warn of its volatility and urge caution amid the current frenzy.
Oct 01, 2025 at 04:10 PM EDT
White House budget chief warns of imminent federal layoffs amid shutdown
Russ Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, told House Republicans on Wednesday that permanent layoffs of federal workers could begin within days if the government shutdown continues. According to multiple sources on the call, Vought did not specify which agencies or how many employees might be affected but indicated that cuts would target departments outside the administration’s priorities.
Vought also warned that the WIC program, which provides nutritional support to mothers and children, could run out of funding by next week. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the call’s purpose was to prepare lawmakers for the potential fallout, while placing blame on Democrats for the shutdown’s impact.
Oct 01, 2025 at 03:57 PM EDT
Senate pauses funding votes for Yom Kippur, resumes Friday
The Senate will temporarily halt votes on competing government funding proposals on Thursday in observance of Yom Kippur, allowing Jewish members to mark the holy day. Lawmakers are expected to resume voting Friday and Saturday if no deal is reached to resolve the ongoing shutdown.
Exact voting times for the weekend have not been decided. According to Republican leadership aides, the Senate will not convene on Sunday and plans to reconvene on Monday to continue negotiations.
Oct 01, 2025 at 03:44 PM EDT
Jeffries rejects GOP blame over shutdown fallout
Representative Hakeem Jeffries of New York dismissed Republican claims that Democrats are responsible for federal worker layoffs and potential program cuts tied to the ongoing government shutdown. He pointed to actions taken by the Trump administration since January 20 as the root cause.
At a press conference, Jeffries expressed confidence in Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s ability to keep Democrats unified against the GOP’s stopgap funding bill, offering a one-word response: “Yes.” That marks a shift from March, when Schumer sided with Republicans to avoid a shutdown, prompting Jeffries to dodge questions about Senate leadership.
Three senators who caucus with Democrats—Catherine Cortez Masto, John Fetterman, and Angus King—have broken ranks to support the Republican measure. The GOP needs eight Democratic-aligned votes to advance the bill.
Oct 01, 2025 at 03:30 PM EDT
Key Democrats to watch in shutdown standoff with Trump—Who could fold?
Democrats remain in a standoff with President Donald Trump and Republicans over a bill to temporarily fund the federal government and end the shutdown that began on Wednesday. Several swing-state Democrats are being closely watched as negotiations could resume later this week.
Government shutdowns have many impacts—hundreds of thousands of federal workers are being furloughed or potentially fired, and the shutdown means disruptions to passport processing applications, national parks and government benefits. Leaders from both parties have sought to avoid a shutdown but have struggled to reach a deal on the temporary funding bill, commonly referred to as a continuing resolution (CR).
Democrats are seeking an extension of health care tax credits that are set to expire and a rollback of Medicaid cuts as part of their negotiations. Still, Republicans have not agreed to these proposals. The House has passed the stopgap bill, but it has stalled in the Senate, where it requires a 60-vote filibuster to pass.
It’s the first shutdown since a 35-day shutdown that lasted from 2018 to 2019.
Read the full story by Andrew Stanton on Newsweek.
Oct 01, 2025 at 03:17 PM EDT
Government shutdown end date, according to betting odds
...
With the federal government shutdown in effect as of early Wednesday, bettors on the prediction market Polymarket are wagering on its duration, and almost half expect it to last more than two weeks.
The federal government shut down early Wednesday after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill Tuesday night, with back-to-back votes in which each party blocked the other’s stopgap plan. It’s the first shutdown since the 35-day lapse in 2018-19 during President Donald Trump's first term.
Federal agencies have begun implementing contingency plans, scaling back services, and furloughing thousands of employees until Congress reaches a deal. Pay for many federal workers will be delayed, with some employees required to work without pay. Essential programs, such as Social Security, will continue, although staffing shortages may slow service.
Read the full story by Mandy Taheri on Newsweek.
Oct 01, 2025 at 03:04 PM EDT
Bipartisan frustration mounts as senators slam government shutdown
Senators from both parties voiced growing frustration Wednesday over the government shutdown, with some Democrats breaking ranks to support a GOP funding bill. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) criticized the impasse, saying, “The American public is looking at Congress and saying, ‘What are you doing?’”
Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) echoed the sentiment, calling the shutdown “a really shitty show” and urging lawmakers to find common ground. Meanwhile, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) acknowledged pressure from federal workers to resist GOP proposals but questioned how long that stance would hold.
Oct 01, 2025 at 02:59 PM EDT
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie addresses shutdown impact at Lehigh Valley Business Forum
U.S. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.) spoke to Lehigh Valley business leaders on Wednesday morning, calling the government shutdown a “very unfortunate situation” and warning of immediate economic ripple effects. At the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum, Mackenzie said the lapse in funding could delay key data releases, including Friday’s jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Mackenzie defended his vote two weeks ago to continue government funding and urged Senate colleagues to support a clean continuing resolution. The House is currently adjourned until next week, drawing criticism from Democrats who say that Pennsylvania Republicans contributed to the shutdown by failing to act on healthcare costs.
The annual forum was hosted by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Manufacturers Resource Center.
Oct 01, 2025 at 02:46 PM EDT
NOAA pauses website updates amid shutdown, maintains safety alerts
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has suspended updates to its main website due to the ongoing government shutdown, according to a notice posted Wednesday. While general content will not be refreshed, NOAA has confirmed that critical weather forecasts and emergency alerts will continue to be available through essential platforms.
Websites and social media channels used to protect lives and property, such as weather.gov, which provides real-time forecasts and warnings, remain active. For broader updates, NOAA directed users to the Commerce Department’s site.
...
Oct 01, 2025 at 02:32 PM EDT
Schumer blames Johnson for shutdown
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Wednesday placed responsibility for the government shutdown on House Speaker Mike Johnson, but emphasized that Johnson must be part of any negotiations to end the shutdown. Speaking on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Schumer said Republicans control all branches of government and will bear the blame.
“Johnson’s been the real bad guy in this,” Schumer said, criticizing the House’s decision to recess as the shutdown began. He called for immediate talks involving Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and President Trump.
The shutdown follows a failed attempt late Tuesday to pass a stopgap funding bill. Both parties have traded blame, with Thune accusing Democrats of bowing to pressure from progressives. Schumer and Jeffries are pushing for negotiations that include health care provisions, such as extended Affordable Care Act subsidies.
Oct 01, 2025 at 02:19 PM EDT
History of government shutdowns in US: Latest shutdown marks 22nd since 1976, fourth under Trump
The federal government entered its 22nd shutdown since 1976 on Wednesday, following a breakdown in congressional negotiations over funding for the government. This marks the fourth shutdown under President Trump and comes amid deepening partisan divisions.
Shutdowns have evolved from brief interruptions into prolonged crises. Over the past 15 years, funding gaps have persisted for weeks, sidelining hundreds of thousands of federal workers and disrupting daily life. The most extended shutdown occurred in late 2018, lasting over a month as Trump demanded funding for the border wall.
The roots of shutdowns can be traced back to a 1974 overhaul of the budget process, which shifted funding authority to Congress. Early shutdowns were initially limited in scope, but legal opinions issued in 1980 and 1981 expanded their impact, requiring agencies to halt operations without appropriations unless they were tied to safety or property protection.
With no clear resolution in sight, Americans now face the possibility of another drawn-out standoff, echoing past shutdowns that strained public services and economic stability.
Oct 01, 2025 at 02:07 PM EDT
National parks stay open despite shutdown—but staffing shortages raise concerns
The Trump administration’s plan to keep national parks open during the government shutdown is facing scrutiny as the National Park Service furloughs more than 60 percent of its workforce. While roads, trails, and open-air memorials remain accessible, basic services such as trash collection and restroom maintenance are limited to parks that can afford them through visitor fees.
Out of 14,500 NPS employees, nearly 9,300 are off the job, prompting concerns from former park officials and advocacy groups. Phil Francis, chair of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, warned that without adequate staffing, parks risk damage and unsafe conditions.
Other federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management will also remain open, although services may be limited or restricted. Interior Department officials defended the decision, blaming Congressional Democrats for the shutdown and emphasizing efforts to maintain critical operations.
Some Democrats, including Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, support keeping parks accessible, citing economic impacts. Meanwhile, Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) urged the administration to prioritize Joshua Tree National Park, highlighting its importance to local businesses.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:59 PM EDT
U.S. Embassy in Bogotá suspends social media updates amid funding halt
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá announced Wednesday that it will pause social media activity due to the interruption of federal budget allocations in the United States.
In a statement auto-translated from Spanish, the embassy said updates will cease until operations resume, with exceptions made only for urgent safety information.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:53 PM EDT
Princeton SPIA experts warn shutdown undermines democracy, fuels public distrust
Faculty from Princeton’s School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) are sounding alarms over the federal government shutdown, calling it a symptom of deepening political dysfunction. In a press release shared with Newsweek, scholars outlined the shutdown’s impact on democratic institutions, public trust, and constitutional stability.
Eduardo Bhatia described the crisis as a sign of democratic erosion, while Charles Cameron framed it as a bipartisan “blame game” with real consequences for federal workers and vulnerable communities. Udi Ofer warned of increased strain on the courts and potential executive overreach, and Lauren Wright noted the economic uncertainty and political risks for both parties.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:47 PM EDT
Angus King defends support for GOP funding bill amid Democratic opposition
Independent Senator Angus King is standing by his vote in favor of the Republican-backed funding proposal, despite mounting opposition from Senate Democrats.
King said Wednesday he feels no pressure to reverse course, emphasizing his commitment to keeping the government open.
“I was right. Why should I change my vote?” King said.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:35 PM EDT
White House blocks funding for federal watchdog office, shuttering oversight hub
A key federal oversight body tasked with monitoring government accountability was abruptly shut down on Wednesday after the White House withheld congressionally approved funding for the new fiscal year. The Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE), which oversees 72 inspector general offices, ceased operations, and its website—housing decades of watchdog reports—disappeared.
The move was not directly tied to the government shutdown that began at midnight, but it has intensified Democratic criticism of the administration’s spending tactics. Lawmakers argue the funding block undermines trust in negotiations, pointing to the White House’s ability to override appropriations passed by Congress.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:20 PM EDT
GOP leaders reject changes to stopgap bill, blame Democrats for shutdown
Republican leaders in Congress are holding firm on the House-passed stopgap funding bill, rejecting any amendments and placing responsibility for the government shutdown squarely on Senate Democrats.
House Speaker Mike Johnson made clear during a Wednesday press conference that the seven-week continuing resolution is non-negotiable. “There isn’t anything we can do to make this bill any better for them,” Johnson said, calling the measure “sparkling clean.”
Senate Minority Whip John Thune echoed the stance, asserting that the shutdown will persist until Democrats in the Senate approve the bill. He accused Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of leading his caucus into a political dead end, influenced by progressive groups.
“This could have been avoided,” Thune said, holding up a copy of the resolution. “It ends when the Senate Democrats pick this bill up … and vote for it.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:12 PM EDT
Schumer: “AMERICANS DON’T DESERVE TO SEE THEIR PREMIUMS DOUBLED’
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer slammed Republicans for increasing healthcare premiums during the government shutdown. In a pointed social media post, Schumer wrote, “It is not radical to say Americans don’t deserve to see their premiums doubled because of Republicans.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:08 PM EDT
House Democrats link shutdown to health care fight in SNAP-focused visit
House Democrats are intensifying efforts to frame the ongoing government shutdown as a direct threat to Americans' healthcare and essential services. On Wednesday, members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus—including Representative Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, the No. 3 House Democrat—visited the Upcounty Regional Service Center in Germantown, Maryland, to spotlight the potential impact on federal programs like food stamps.
The visit comes as Democrats aim to underscore how a prolonged shutdown could disrupt access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports millions of low-income families. Staff at the Germantown center assist residents who rely on SNAP and other federal aid.
Joining Clark were Representative April McClain Delaney of Maryland and Representative Teresa Leger Fernández of New Mexico, among others.
Oct 01, 2025 at 01:04 PM EDT
D.C. federal court pauses government cases amid shutdown, surge in lawsuits
The Federal District Court for the District of Columbia announced Wednesday it will delay deadlines and pause proceedings in cases involving the federal government due to the shutdown and a wave of litigation targeting the Trump administration.
Judges will continue to review motions in urgent cases, including those challenging administrative policies.
The Justice Department has already requested stays in multiple lawsuits, including one filed Wednesday morning over cuts to domestic violence programs.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:58 PM EDT
HUD website blames ‘radical left’ for shutdown
As the federal government shutdown begins, ethics lawyers are raising alarms over banners on official websites blaming the “Radical Left in Congress” for the funding lapse. The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s homepage features a prominent pop-up accusing Democrats of causing the shutdown, prompting scrutiny over potential violations of federal ethics rules.
Legal experts say the messaging may breach the Hatch Act, which prohibits partisan political activity within federal agencies. “That’s not plausible,” said Kevin Owen, a D.C.-based attorney representing federal workers, in response to HUD’s claim that “Radical Left” refers to ideology, not party affiliation.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner also posted on social media this week, stating that “Democrats” were “holding our government hostage.” The Office of Special Counsel, historically tasked with investigating Hatch Act violations, has limited oversight after President Trump replaced its leadership earlier in his second term.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:54 PM EDT
Thune says shutdown must end before bipartisan Affordable Care Act talks can begin
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Wednesday that some Democrats appear to be seeking a path out of the government shutdown through private discussions with Republicans on bolstering Affordable Care Act subsidies. However, Thune emphasized that such negotiations can’t proceed until the shutdown ends.
“I think they’re looking for a way out, but the way out is to open up the government,” Thune said after the Senate failed to advance the GOP funding bill.
Looking ahead, Thune said the Senate will “tee up some votes” when lawmakers return, with the following vote expected Friday.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:49 PM EDT
Schumer: Government shutdown is ‘really the Trump shutdown’
On CNN News Central, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) blamed President Trump and congressional Republicans for the ongoing government shutdown, calling it “really the Trump shutdown.” Schumer said GOP lawmakers failed to protect Americans from rising health care costs and tried to “barrel” Democrats into accepting a partisan funding bill.
“Our caucus is resolute,” Schumer said, emphasizing the need for a bipartisan solution that addresses what he described as a deepening health care crisis. He cited new data suggesting premiums could rise by as much as $1,000 per month, warning that families will be “outraged” when bills arrive.
Responding to Vice President J.D. Vance’s offer to negotiate after the government reopens, Schumer dismissed the delay: “Later means never.” He also defended his past opposition to shutdowns, saying Republicans refused to negotiate this time, unlike previous budget cycles.
Schumer rejected speculation that his stance is politically motivated, including suggestions he’s avoiding a primary challenge from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. “My motivation is to do my job,” he said. “The politics is with the American people.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:42 PM EDT
Schumer slams Trump administration for threatening key NYC transit projects
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Wednesday accused President Trump and budget chief Russell Vought of jeopardizing two major New York infrastructure projects: the Gateway Tunnel and the Second Avenue Subway.
In a sharply worded tweet, Schumer said the move “royally screws commuters” and called the obstruction “stupid and counterproductive.”
The projects, which aim to modernize aging transit systems and expand capacity, are expected to generate tens of thousands of jobs and bolster both regional and national economic growth, according to Schumer.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:36 PM EDT
What is the IRS’s fate during the shutdown?
While most federal agencies face furloughs and service disruptions, the Internal Revenue Service will continue normal operations for the first week of the government shutdown.
According to its contingency plan, none of the IRS’s 74,299 employees have been furloughed, thanks to a dedicated funding reserve established by Democrats in 2022.
The plan only guarantees operations through the first five business days of the shutdown. It remains uncertain whether the agency will stay open beyond that period if congressional gridlock persists.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:25 PM EDT
Senate Democrats block GOP stopgap bill in 55–45 vote
Senate Democrats on Wednesday voted to block a Republican-backed stopgap funding bill aimed at keeping the government open through Nov. 21. The measure failed to advance in a 55–45 vote, falling short of the 60 votes required to move forward.
The rejection marks another setback in negotiations as the shutdown continues.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:24 PM EDT
Sen. Hassan rejects GOP funding plan, calls for bipartisan health care deal
Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) voted against a Republican-backed seven-week stopgap funding proposal Tuesday, citing concerns over health care cuts. “The Republicans shut down the government to cut people’s health care,” Hassan said, urging lawmakers to find “a bipartisan path forward” that protects coverage and prevents premium hikes.
Hassan and fellow New Hampshire Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen conferred with party leaders before siding with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in opposing the GOP bill. Shaheen later spoke privately with Senate Republican Leader John Thune.
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), a physician, said he has bipartisan ideas to preserve Affordable Care Act subsidies and reduce insurance costs. He criticized the shutdown’s impact on negotiations and called for a comprehensive year-end package.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:12 PM EDT
Rep. Gus Bilirakis requests pay withholding during shutdown
Florida Congressman Gus Bilirakis has requested that his net pay be withheld until the federal government reopens.
Oct 01, 2025 at 12:04 PM EDT
Sen. Ron Johnson: ‘This federal government’s basically bankrupt’
Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) dismissed concerns over the Trump administration’s warning that federal workers could face permanent layoffs during the ongoing government shutdown. Speaking to CNN, Johnson said, “This federal government’s basically bankrupt,” and compared the situation to private sector layoffs during financial crises.
While acknowledging he couldn’t predict specific outcomes, Johnson argued that public employees shouldn’t be shielded from job cuts. “That’s what happens in the private sector all the time,” he said.
Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought reinforced the administration’s stance Tuesday, stating the government has authority to enact lasting changes to federal staffing and programs, beyond temporary furloughs.
Johnson called the shutdown “completely unnecessary,” but stopped short of criticizing the administration’s approach to workforce reductions.
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:58 AM EDT
Senate voting on government funding through mid-November
The Senate voted 47–53 along party lines to block a Democratic bill aimed at reopening the federal government, which had shut down at midnight. The measure would have extended funding through October 31 and preserved expiring health care tax credits, but fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance.
Lawmakers are now voting on a Republican-backed proposal, previously passed by the House, that would fund the government through November 21. It also requires 60 votes to move forward. The outcome will determine whether the shutdown continues or a temporary resolution is reached.
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:57 AM EDT
Understanding the government shutdown
...
...
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:44 AM EDT
Government shutdown could delay another bad jobs report for Trump
...
The U.S. government has entered a shutdown after the Senate failed to pass a last-minute funding bill, potentially delaying the release of economic data as the nation’s federal economists and statisticians are placed on leave.
Among the affected agencies is the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which was scheduled to release a crucial employment report on Friday morning, which forecasts had indicated would reveal another weak period of jobs growth.
"Due to the federal government shutdown, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) will suspend data collection, processing, and dissemination," the BLS told Newsweek.
The shutdown will mean certain U.S. government services are paused, and pay is suspended for hundreds of thousands of employees. Economists have warned that a protracted shutdown could also harm economic growth.
Read the full story by Hugh Cameron on Newsweek.
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:32 AM EDT
Are airports impacted by government shutdowns? What it means for travelers
A partial government shutdown is now in effect after Congress failed to pass funding legislation by the September 30 deadline, triggering furloughs for hundreds of thousands of federal workers and suspending non-essential operations.
Essential personnel—including air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and border security officers—will continue working without pay, ensuring that flights and airport operations remain functional. However, Airlines for America warns that staffing shortages could slow down the system and reduce efficiency, echoing delays seen during the 2019 shutdown.
Amtrak trains will continue to run, supported by ticket revenue and prior funding, although prolonged disruptions could strain operations. Cruise ports are also expected to remain open, with the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection maintaining core functions. Still, some destination experiences, such as visits to national parks, may be affected.
The U.S. Travel Association estimates the shutdown could cost the travel economy up to $1 billion per week, underscoring the wide-reaching impact on both travelers and the industry.
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:24 AM EDT
Federal websites go dark amid government shutdown
...
As the federal government shutdown continues, several official websites have gone offline or halted updates, citing the lapse in funding. Users attempting to access the US Census are met with a notice stating that portions of the site will not be updated and inquiries will go unanswered until appropriations are restored.
The National Archives website displays a similar message, announcing the closure of its facilities and the suspension of online activity, including social media updates. Only a few exceptions remain operational.
Oct 01, 2025 at 11:10 AM EDT
How does a government shutdown impact citizens?
The U.S. government has officially shut down after lawmakers failed to reach a budget agreement, resulting in widespread disruptions to federal services. The impasse halts funding for operations through October and beyond, affecting everything from air travel to national parks.
About 750,000 federal workers—roughly 40% of the workforce—are expected to be furloughed without pay. Essential personnel, including air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and law enforcement officers, will continue working but without compensation until the shutdown ends.
Travelers may encounter longer airport lines and delays, with potential increases in passport processing times. Smithsonian museums will remain open temporarily, but zoo webcams have gone dark, and National Parks may close or operate without staff, raising concerns about vandalism and safety.
Healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, will continue, although staffing shortages may cause delays. Food assistance programs such as WIC are at risk of running out of funds, and FEMA’s disaster relief capacity could be strained if the shutdown persists.
Mail delivery remains unaffected, as the U.S. Postal Service operates independently of congressional funding.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:58 AM EDT
Speaker Johnson deflects on Trump’s military remarks
On CBS Mornings, House Speaker Mike Johnson declined to directly address President Donald Trump’s recent comments suggesting American cities be used as “training grounds” for the military and referring to residents as “the enemy within.”
Pressed by anchor George Stephanopoulos on whether such a proposal reflects the best use of U.S. military resources, Johnson shifted focus to the government shutdown, saying, “What we need to be talking about today is real harm that the American people are going to feel because of what Schumer is doing.”
When Stephanopoulos reiterated that Trump’s remarks were direct quotes, Johnson accused the host of taking them out of context. He defended the president without elaborating on the substance of the comments.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:55 AM EDT
Trump administration halts $18B in NYC projects amid shutdown, targets DEI policies
The Trump administration announced Wednesday it is pausing funding for two major New York City infrastructure projects during the ongoing government shutdown. White House budget director Russell Vought said the move affects approximately $18 billion in spending, citing concerns over “unconstitutional DEI principles.”
The Hudson Tunnel Project and Second Avenue Subway are among the initiatives placed on hold, with the Department of Transportation expected to release further details. The decision directly impacts districts represented by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Vought emphasized that the administration is using the shutdown to advance its policy agenda, including potential reductions in the federal workforce and cuts to benefit programs. “We have the authority to make permanent change to the bureaucracy here in government,” he said on Fox Business.
Vought is scheduled to brief House Republicans by phone later Wednesday as the administration continues to leverage executive powers during the funding lapse.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:46 AM EDT
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore activates contingency plans, blames Trump for shutdown impact
...
Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced Tuesday that his administration has launched contingency measures to keep federal programs running in the state amid the government shutdown. Moore said state agencies are coordinating with private partners to protect federal workers from eviction, foreclosure, and utility shutoffs.
Maryland is home to one of the largest concentrations of federal employees in the country, making it especially vulnerable to shutdown-related disruptions.
Moore also issued a sharp rebuke of President Donald Trump, joining other Democrats in blaming the administration for the funding lapse. “On behalf of the six and a half million Marylanders, my message to President Trump is clear: Stop this shutdown,” Moore said. “You’re the one causing it. We’re the ones dealing with it.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:39 AM EDT
When was the last time the U.S. government shut down?
The federal government officially entered a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, after the House and Senate failed to reach a spending agreement. With none of the 12 required appropriations bills passed, this marks a full shutdown—halting operations across all unfunded agencies.
The last major shutdown began in December 2018 and lasted 35 days, the longest in over four decades. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the U.S. economy incurred an estimated $3 billion in lost GDP.
Shutdowns have become less frequent since 1990, but deepening partisan divides have made budget negotiations increasingly difficult. Speaker Mike Johnson leads one of the narrowest House majorities in history, while Senate Republicans lack the votes to overcome a filibuster—leaving little room for compromise.
In contrast to the partial shutdown of 2018, when some agencies remained funded, this lapse affects all departments that do not have approved budgets. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers face furloughs or unpaid work, with critical services expected to operate under contingency plans.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:25 AM EDT
Will student aid keep flowing during the government shutdown?
The Department of Education confirmed it will continue disbursing Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans during the government shutdown, ensuring financial aid reaches nearly 10 million students across 5,400 institutions. However, borrowers are still required to make loan payments as scheduled.
According to a departmental memo, approximately 95% of staff not involved in federal student aid operations will be furloughed in the first week of the shutdown. The agency also announced a pause on new grant-making activities until funding is restored.
While core student aid programs remain intact, the staffing cuts and halted initiatives signal broader disruptions across the department’s functions.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:17 AM EDT
What is happening with the FDA during the shutdown?
As the government shutdown continues, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced it will maintain essential public health activities while suspending several long-term initiatives. According to its contingency plan, the agency will continue drug and medical device recalls, monitor foodborne illnesses and flu outbreaks, and screen imported food and medical products. Investigations deemed necessary to protect public health will also proceed.
However, the FDA warned that it will halt oversight of new ingredients in animal feed, limiting its ability to ensure the safety of meat, milk, and eggs from livestock. Long-term food safety programs will be paused, and the agency will not process new drug applications or medical device submissions during the shutdown.
Staff responsible for monitoring potentially unsafe or ineffective drugs will only be supported in cases of imminent public risk, further narrowing the agency’s operational scope.
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:14 AM EDT
White House blames Democrats for government shutdown: ‘DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN’
The White House escalated its rhetoric on Wednesday morning, posting a sharply worded message on X that accused congressional Democrats of causing the government shutdown. The post labeled the funding lapse a “DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN” and claimed their $1.5 trillion spending proposal includes “FREE health care for illegals” and “zero regard for Americans.”
“They are holding the nation HOSTAGE to appease their radical left base,” the post read, calling the situation “the DEMOCRATS’ DISASTER.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:08 AM EDT
OMB Director to brief House Republicans as shutdown sparks layoff planning
Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought is scheduled to hold a call with House Republicans at 1 p.m. ET Wednesday to outline next steps following the government shutdown, according to a source familiar with the discussion.
The call comes amid heightened tensions following the White House budget office's instruction to federal agencies earlier this week to prepare for mass workforce reductions if funding remains stalled. The directive goes beyond standard furlough procedures, raising concerns about permanent job losses and program cuts.
President Donald Trump reinforced the administration’s stance during remarks in the Oval Office on Tuesday, saying, “We can do things during the shutdown that are irreversible… like cutting vast numbers of people and cutting programs that they like.”
The shutdown, which began at midnight, has already triggered widespread disruption across federal agencies, with no clear resolution in sight.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:55 AM EDT
VP Vance says Trump administration aims to preserve essential services amid shutdown
Vice President J.D. Vance said on Tuesday on CBS Mornings that the Trump administration is working to keep essential government functions running during the shutdown, despite widespread furloughs. “We don’t want to lay anybody off,” Vance said.
Vance blamed Senate Democrats for triggering the shutdown, saying they refused to compromise on policy disagreements. “We were sort of dealt this hand,” he said, referring to Democratic efforts to include Obamacare subsidy extensions in the spending bill. Republicans, meanwhile, are advocating for a continuation of current funding levels without additional provisions.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that roughly 750,000 federal workers will be furloughed. The White House Office of Management and Budget has asked agencies to prepare for possible permanent workforce reductions, escalating concerns beyond standard shutdown procedures.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:48 AM EDT
Will Social Security be impacted by the government shutdown? What to know about payments
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will continue uninterrupted during the government shutdown, thanks to their funding through a protected trust not subject to annual congressional appropriations. Retirement, survivor, and disability benefits are classified as mandatory spending and remain unaffected.
However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will operate with a reduced workforce, leading to delays in several services. New applications, appeals, benefit verifications, and replacement card requests may face longer processing times. Customer service wait times are also expected to rise.
The shutdown could postpone the release of key inflation data used to calculate the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), potentially delaying its announcement. SSA field offices are expected to stay open for critical services, ensuring benefits are paid accurately and on time.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:40 AM EDT
Shutdown delays key jobs report, complicates economic outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has postponed its monthly jobs report due to the ongoing government shutdown, delaying critical data on payroll growth and unemployment that had been scheduled for release on Friday.
The report’s absence comes at a pivotal time for the U.S. economy, which is grappling with trade tensions, shifting immigration patterns, and widening income disparities. Recent months have shown signs of labor market strain, with fewer job openings and rising difficulty for unemployed Americans seeking work.
The delay could hinder the Federal Reserve’s ability to assess economic conditions as it weighs potential interest rate cuts. Without official employment figures, policymakers lose a key tool for evaluating labor trends and inflation risks.
An independent report from ADP, released on Wednesday, estimated a 32,000 job decline in September, although analysts cautioned that data limitations may affect its precision. Still, the report reinforced concerns about a weakening job market.
The disruption also follows the White House’s withdrawal of its nominee to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, adding further uncertainty to the agency’s leadership and future reporting timeline.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:34 AM EDT
Vance blames ‘radical left’ for government shutdown
Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Senate Democrats on Wednesday morning, accusing them of triggering the government shutdown over a policy dispute.
Speaking on CBS Mornings, Vance said, “There are critical services that the Democrats have taken hostage because they have a policy disagreement.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:31 AM EDT
Senate set for another round of shutdown votes, outcome unlikely to change
The Senate is scheduled to vote again at 11 a.m. on competing Democratic and Republican proposals to end the government shutdown. However, neither bill is expected to secure enough support to pass.
The deadlock reflects deep-seated partisan divisions over spending priorities and healthcare provisions.
Senate Republicans have signaled that they will continue to push votes on the House-passed stopgap funding bill, aiming to highlight Democratic opposition and apply political pressure.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:24 AM EDT
Schumer defends shift in shutdown stance, blames GOP for breakdown in talks
...
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer defended his current position on the government shutdown during a CNN interview on Wednesday, pushing back against criticism from House Speaker Mike Johnson and the White House over his past opposition to shutdowns.
Schumer acknowledged that he previously called shutdowns “self-defeating,” but said that statement was made during a period of active bipartisan negotiations that ultimately kept the government running. “We sat and negotiated with the Republicans every time. They got some things, we got some things,” he told CNN’s John Berman.
This time, Schumer said, Republicans refused to engage, despite repeated outreach from both himself and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. He cited GOP actions on health care as a key reason for the hardened Democratic stance, accusing Republicans of undermining critical programs.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:17 AM EDT
Texas Democrats slam Trump over shutdown, cite health care crisis
Texas Democratic Party Chairman Kendall Scudder sharply criticized President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans on Tuesday, accusing them of triggering a government shutdown rather than collaborating with Democrats to address rising health care costs.
“Donald Trump and his lapdogs in the U.S. Congress would rather shut down the government than work with Democrats to prevent a massive health care crisis for thousands of Texans at a time we can least afford it,” Scudder said in a statement.
He blamed the GOP for escalating medical expenses and refusing to negotiate on measures aimed at lowering costs for Texas families. The shutdown, which began at midnight, has intensified partisan tensions as Democrats push to preserve health care subsidies set to expire.
Oct 01, 2025 at 09:10 AM EDT
HHS furloughs thousands amid shutdown, critical health services continue
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that over 32,000 of its nearly 80,000 employees will be furloughed during the ongoing government shutdown, as outlined in its contingency plan. Despite the staffing cuts, essential public health operations will continue to function.
Agencies under HHS—including the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the CDC, and the FDA—will maintain “excepted activities,” such as emergency responses to pandemics, influenza outbreaks, and natural disasters. The National Institutes of Health will also sustain critical research and clinical services necessary to safeguard human life and federal property.
However, the shutdown halts research grants and contracts with external institutions, including universities. The NIH will restrict new patient admissions to its research hospital unless the admission is medically urgent. Additionally, HHS will suspend processing of Freedom of Information Act requests until funding is restored.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:58 AM EDT
Markets dip as shutdown fuels investor anxiety, gold hits record high
U.S. markets opened on Wednesday with signs of unease following the government shutdown that began at midnight. S&P 500 futures slipped 0.4% in premarket trading, while gold surged past $3,900 an ounce, marking a new record amid rising investor concern.
Historically, markets have weathered shutdowns with minimal disruption. However, analysts warn that prolonged gridlock—especially with President Trump’s threats of mass civil servant firings and permanent cuts—could have more severe economic consequences.
Despite the dip, the S&P 500 remains up 14% for the year, buoyed by investor enthusiasm around artificial intelligence. The index has posted five straight monthly gains, recovering from earlier declines tied to sweeping import tariffs.
Bond and dollar markets held steady, though the Federal Reserve faces challenges in adjusting interest rates without key economic data. The Bureau of Labor Statistics confirmed that it will not release Friday’s jobs report, and other indicators, such as inflation data, may also be delayed.
Gold’s meteoric rise—up roughly 50% this year—reflects growing demand for safe-haven assets. Analysts at Sucden Financial say the trend is unlikely to reverse soon, citing persistent fiscal and political uncertainty.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:51 AM EDT
Veteran services and military operations continue amid shutdown, but pay delays loom
Despite the government shutdown, most veteran benefits and military operations will continue to be funded, ensuring continuity in essential services. Active-duty military personnel and active guard reserves will continue their assignments, though new orders will be restricted to urgent needs such as disaster relief or national security.
Civilian and military workers will face delayed paychecks until a funding agreement is reached, forcing many to work without immediate compensation. National Guard members funded federally may see their orders canceled unless deemed essential.
The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that 97% of its workforce will remain on duty, but regional offices will close. Some services, including the placement of headstones at VA cemeteries and grounds maintenance, will be suspended. Communication channels such as hotlines, emails, and social media responses will also be limited during the shutdown.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:42 AM EDT
National parks stay partially open amid government shutdown
Despite the ongoing government shutdown, many national parks will remain partially accessible to the public, according to a contingency plan released by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Open-air areas, such as trails, park roads, scenic lookouts, and outdoor memorials, will remain open, while staffed facilities—including visitor centers and landmarks like the Washington Monument—will be closed.
Basic health and safety services will continue at operational sites, including restroom maintenance and trash collection. However, emergency response capabilities will be limited, and any site posing a safety or resource risk may be closed.
The National Park Service is furloughing approximately 64% of its workforce. The remaining staff will focus on “excepted” duties such as law enforcement, fire suppression, coastal surveillance, and emergency operations. The department emphasized that public access will be monitored closely to prevent hazards during the shutdown.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:36 AM EDT
Government shutdown triggers massive federal worker furloughs across key agencies
Hundreds of thousands of federal employees have been furloughed as the government shutdown takes hold, with some agencies seeing nearly 90% of their workforce sidelined. The Environmental Protection Agency leads the list, furloughing 13,432 of its 15,166 employees—an 89% reduction.
The Department of Education is closely following, with 87% of its staff affected, while the Departments of Commerce and Labor have furloughed 81% and 76% of their personnel, respectively. Housing and Urban Development, State, and Interior departments have also seen significant cuts, ranging from 53% to 71%.
Even larger agencies are not immune. The Department of Defense has furloughed 334,904 civilian workers, representing 45% of its total workforce. Health and Human Services, Agriculture, and Transportation have each furloughed tens of thousands.
Smaller agencies, such as the Small Business Administration and the Office of Personnel Management, have furloughed 23% and 10% of their staff, respectively. Meanwhile, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs—critical to national security and public welfare—have kept most employees on duty, furloughing only 5% and 3%, respectively.
The widespread furloughs underscore the shutdown’s sweeping impact on federal operations, with long-term consequences likely if funding is not restored soon.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:29 AM EDT
Government shutdown threatens long-term stability of U.S. air travel
The government shutdown that began Wednesday is expected to have minimal immediate impact on air travel, but industry leaders warn that prolonged disruption could jeopardize aviation safety and operations.
Essential personnel—including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration agents—will remain on duty, though they won’t receive pay until the shutdown ends. The Department of Transportation’s contingency plan confirms that hiring, training, emergency investigations, and safety oversight will continue.
However, roughly 25% of the Federal Aviation Administration’s 45,000 employees are being furloughed. That pause affects aviation rulemaking, performance analysis, and some safety oversight functions. Industry groups have alerted Congress that delays in safety initiatives and equipment repairs could follow.
The 2018 shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, resulted in widespread absenteeism among TSA agents and air traffic controllers, leading to significant flight delays at major airports. Aviation leaders fear a repeat scenario.
“A government shutdown puts the integrity of the world’s safest aviation system at risk,” said Capt. Jody Reven, president of the Southwest Airlines pilots’ union, per The New York Times. “Staffing shortages and avoidable safety challenges are consequences we cannot afford to repeat.”
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:21 AM EDT
Florida congressman sparks urges furloughed federal workers to keep working
Rep. Mike Haridopolos, a Republican from Florida, drew criticism Tuesday after suggesting that furloughed federal employees should continue working during the government shutdown. Speaking on CNN, Haridopolos called it part of the “give and take” of public service, citing generous federal benefits as justification.
“If you’re a federal worker, you should show up to work knowing full well when the government opens back up, you’re going to get paid,” he said. “Keep them at work. Work for the American public.”
However, federal law explicitly prohibits furloughed employees from performing their duties voluntarily during a shutdown. The Antideficiency Act prohibits agencies from accepting unpaid labor, even if workers are willing to work for free.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:14 AM EDT
What stays open during a government shutdown?
While every government shutdown unfolds differently, essential services that protect life and property typically remain operational. Federal agencies have released updated contingency plans detailing which functions will continue and which will pause in the event of a funding lapse.
The Department of Health and Human Services warns that the Food and Drug Administration’s public health oversight will be scaled back, with routine inspections limited. However, emergency response capabilities will remain intact.
The Department of Education plans to furlough most staff but will continue to disburse Pell Grants, federal student loans, and maintain Title I and IDEA grant funding. States and schools can still access billions in previously awarded funds.
At the Department of Homeland Security, most personnel will stay on duty. The Department of Defense has prioritized border security, Middle East operations, and the Golden Dome missile defense system in its shutdown strategy.
Each agency’s contingency plan is publicly available on its website, offering transparency into which programs will be sustained and which may face temporary suspension.
...
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:08 AM EDT
Federal unions sue Trump administration over shutdown layoff threats
A coalition of federal employee unions filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging the Trump administration’s plan to lay off workers during a government shutdown, CNN reports. The suit, brought by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), AFL-CIO, and other labor groups in a San Francisco federal court, targets a memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) that suggests the shutdown could justify mass terminations.
Union attorneys argue the OMB overstepped its legal authority, asserting that federal law does not permit reductions in force during a lapse in appropriations. The memo, they claim, violates the Antideficiency Act and misuses the shutdown process to pressure Congress and punish federal workers.
The OMB directive instructs agencies to identify unfunded programs and consider eliminating jobs that don’t align with President Trump’s policy goals. The unions are seeking a court order to invalidate the memo and block any related actions, calling the move “arbitrary and capricious” and a misuse of federal employees as a form of political leverage.
Oct 01, 2025 at 08:02 AM EDT
Democrats unite in shutdown showdown against Trump
In a rare moment of unity, Democrats across the ideological spectrum are embracing a government shutdown as a necessary stand against President Donald Trump and his Republican allies. From progressive activists to centrist lawmakers, the party is rallying behind demands to extend expiring health care subsidies, rejecting Trump’s insistence on a “clean” spending bill that omits the measure.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries have emerged as central figures in the standoff, drawing praise even from critics within their own ranks. The shutdown, Democrats argue, is a response to months of frustration over Trump’s aggressive leadership style and unilateral policy moves.
The conflict has quickly escalated. Trump has used official government platforms and social media to blame Democrats, including posting a deepfake video that depicted Jeffries in a racist caricature. Jeffries responded forcefully, challenging Trump to confront him directly.
Despite the risks, Democratic strategists like James Carville believe the party is better positioned politically, noting that Republicans control both the House and the Senate, as well as the White House. “The incumbent party will suffer more,” Carville said.
Federal workers, especially those in Virginia, are bracing for potential disruptions. With over 147,000 federal employees in the state, many face furloughs or unpaid work. Yet Democratic leaders say the feedback from constituents has been clear: they want resistance, not retreat.
As the shutdown unfolds, Democrats appear determined to hold their ground, framing the fight not just as a budget dispute but as a broader defense of democratic norms and public services.
Oct 01, 2025 at 07:47 AM EDT
Senate schedules two early votes on government funding
After failing to agree on a funding bill before the midnight deadline, the Senate will sit again from 10 a.m. on Wednesday morning against the backdrop of a government shutdown.
Two votes are scheduled soon after in the morning—one on the "clean" House Republican bill to extend current funding until November 21, and the other on the Senate Democrats' bill, inclusive of its demands on extensions to health care subsidies.
These two votes will test the current level of support for each side. They need 60 votes to pass.
Two Democrats, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and Senator John Fetterman, have already backed the Republican bill to keep the government open in the short-term on current terms while fuller appropriations bargaining takes place.
Senator Angus King, who is independent but caucuses with the Democrats, also voted for the Republican bill on Tuesday.
But it fell short by five votes, at 55-45. The Democratic plan failed by 47-53.
Republicans hope that more Democratic senators will break ranks with their leadership and vote to reopen the government as pressure mounts from voters.
The GOP has 53 seats in the Senate, though Republican Senator Rand Paul also voted against the spending bill, as expected, citing his long-running concerns about the deficit.
Democrats have 45 seats and two independents who caucus with them, King and Senator Bernie Sanders.
Oct 01, 2025 at 06:47 AM EDT
ICE warns on illegal immigration during shutdown
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made clear that there "NO CHANGE to U.S. immigration laws or border enforcement" during a government shutdown.
"Rumors that a U.S. government shutdown will allow illegal immigrants to enter the United States are FALSE," ICE said in a statement posted to its X account. "U.S. immigration laws and enforcement efforts remain unchanged. Border security and enforcement efforts remain strict, and crossing the border without authorization remains a crime."
Oct 01, 2025 at 06:41 AM EDT
Who do voters blame for the government shutdown?
A poll released a few hours before the government shutdown came into effect gave some insight into how voters may apportion the blame.
The New York Times/Siena poll of 1,313 registered voters was conducted from September 22 to 27, so it missed a couple of key days of political wrangling right before the shutdown deadline.
More registered voters said they would blame Trump and the Republicans in Congress for a shutdown, at 26 percent, than the Democrats, at 19 percent. Thirty-three percent blamed them both equally.
But more than a fifth, 21 percent, said they had not yet heard enough to say either way, showing a sizeable number of minds who could be won over in the ongoing Republican-Democratic blame game.
In an ominous sign for Democrats, 65 percent of registered voters said they should not shut down the government, even if their demands are not met.
Oct 01, 2025 at 06:22 AM EDT
OMB’s Vought signals mass layoffs as consequence of shutdown
The Trump administration signaled that the government shutdown could trigger a large-scale slashing of the federal workforce, with potentially hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line.
Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought told Fox Business host Larry Kudlow on Tuesday that he is actively considering workforce reductions. When asked about whether as many as 300,000 workers could lose their jobs, Vought emphasized the administration’s broader goal of shrinking Washington’s reach.
"Let it be said there are all manners of authorities to be able to keep this administration’s policy agenda moving forward, and that includes reducing the size and scope of the federal government, and we will be looking for opportunities to do that," Vought said.
Read the full report by Newsweek's Martha McHardy.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines