Understanding the causes, impacts, and history of U.S. government shutdowns
Live timer tracking the duration of the current government shutdown
A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass funding legislation to finance federal government operations and agencies. When this happens, non-essential government services are suspended, and hundreds of thousands of federal employees are furloughed or required to work without pay.
Shutdowns typically result from disagreements between the President and Congress over budget priorities, policy disputes, or ideological differences. They can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, causing significant disruption to government services and the economy.
Hundreds of thousands furloughed or working without pay
Non-essential services suspended nationwide
Billions in economic losses and reduced GDP growth
Reason: Border wall funding dispute
Impact: 800,000 federal workers furloughed or working without pay
Cost: $11 billion in economic impact
Reason: Affordable Care Act funding dispute
Impact: 800,000 federal workers furloughed
Cost: $24 billion in economic losses
Reason: Budget disagreements between Clinton and Congress
Impact: 284,000 federal workers furloughed
Cost: $1.4 billion in lost productivity
Reason: Debt ceiling negotiations
Impact: Potential shutdown avoided through last-minute deal
Cost: N/A
Understanding government shutdowns helps you stay informed about how federal operations affect your daily life and the economy.
Government shutdowns are a reminder of the importance of civic engagement and understanding how our government works. By learning about these events, you can better understand the political process and how budget decisions impact millions of Americans.