Early Wednesday, the U.S. federal government closed after Congress failed to approve a funding bill. This shutdown pauses funding for many government functions and puts thousands of federal workers on unpaid leave.
Non-essential workers must stay home, while agencies like the CDC and NIH plan furloughs that will impact public health research. Essential workers such as air traffic controllers will continue but will not be paid during the shutdown period, which risks causing airport delays if many call out sick.
The shutdown stems from budget talks falling apart between Republicans and Democrats. Republicans control both houses but need 60 votes in the Senate to pass the bill, which Democrats oppose due to healthcare and budget concerns.
President Trump blamed Democrats for the shutdown, warning that many layoffs would come as a result. He framed the shutdown as a chance to cut unwanted programs. A resolution timeline remains unclear, leaving many Americans worried.
