U.S. Government Shutdown Begins After Senate Blocks GOP Funding Bill
The U.S. government has officially shut down after Senate Republicans failed to pass a temporary funding bill. The measure needed 60 votes but ended with 55 against and 45 in favor. Only a few Democrats supported it, while one Republican opposed.
With no funding in place, many government services will now pause. Essential operations like air traffic control and emergency relief will keep running, but several departments and programs will face disruption.
The shutdown comes after repeated disagreements in Congress. Healthcare and social spending programs are the main sticking points. Democrats want them included in the budget, while Republicans argue they should be handled separately.
The impact also reaches the economy, as important data like the nonfarm payrolls report may be delayed. This adds more uncertainty for markets and traders who depend on timely updates.
This is the 15th U.S. shutdown since 1981. The last major shutdown, under President Trump, lasted 35 days and cost the economy nearly $11 billion. Lawmakers are still divided, but Republicans say they plan to bring another funding bill for a vote soon.
Impact:
Markets might see more volatility as the shutdown continues. The dollar could stay under pressure, while delays in economic data might possibly increase investor uncertainty.