US Heads Toward 15th Government Shutdown Since 1981 as Congress Fails to Reach Funding Deal

US Shutdown: The US government is heading toward its 15th shutdown since 1981. Republicans and Democrats have failed to reach an agreement on funding for federal agencies.

The threat of a government shutdown increases

The Senate is likely to again fail to vote on a temporary spending bill, raising the risk of a government shutdown on Wednesday. Negotiations between the two sides show no progress.

Democrats insist on health benefits, Trump warns

Amid the threat of a shutdown, Democrats are pushing for an expansion of health benefits for millions of Americans. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has threatened to lay off federal employees.

A shutdown is almost certain

No easy solution emerged from the White House meeting. After meeting with Democrats, Vice President J.D. Vance called the impasse absurd and said, "I think we're heading for a shutdown." A temporary spending bill has failed to vote in the Republican-controlled Senate before.

Both sides are blaming each other

Democrats want healthcare issues included in the bill. Republicans say they must deal with this issue separately.

Potential Impact of the Shutdown

Federal agencies have begun preparations. Offices involved in scientific research, customer service, and other non-essential activities may close. If Congress does not find a timely solution, thousands of employees will be sent home.

Airlines have warned that the shutdown could impact flights. The Labor Department will not release its monthly unemployment report. The Small Business Administration will stop issuing loans, and the Environmental Protection Agency may suspend pollution cleanup efforts. However, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that essential operations will continue.