Title: U.S. Government Shutdown Begins Amid Political Stalemate

Content: WASHINGTON — The United States has entered a government shutdown after President Donald Trump and Congress failed to reach an agreement by the Wednesday deadline. Approximately 750,000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed, with some facing potential termination under the Trump administration. Many government offices may close, possibly permanently, as Trump has indicated he will take actions that are "irreversible" and detrimental as a form of retribution. His administration's deportation agenda is anticipated to continue, while various services, including education and environmental programs, may be disrupted. The economic impact of the shutdown is expected to be widespread.

“We don’t want it to shut down,” Trump stated at the White House just before the midnight deadline. Despite meeting privately with congressional leaders, he was unable to broker a deal between Democrats and Republicans. This marks the third federal funding lapse during Trump's presidency, highlighting the deep political divide over budget priorities and a climate that favors hardline stances over traditional compromises.

The Democrats have taken a more aggressive stance in this shutdown, which is atypical for a party that usually seeks to maintain government operations. They are pushing for funding to extend health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire and could lead to increased insurance premiums for millions. Republicans have so far refused to engage in negotiations and have advised Trump to avoid discussions.

After the White House meeting, Trump shared a satirical video that mocked Democratic leaders, which many viewed as inappropriate. Both parties have struggled to find a resolution to prevent what could become a prolonged shutdown, which would disrupt the lives of Americans dependent on government services and benefits.

Rachel Snyderman, a former White House budget official, remarked, "What the government spends money on is a demonstration of our country’s priorities. Shutdowns only inflict economic cost, fear, and confusion across the country."

The economic repercussions could be felt quickly. The government is scheduled to release its monthly jobs report on Friday, although it may not be published due to the shutdown. Historically, financial markets have remained relatively stable during past shutdowns, but analysts suggest this situation could differ due to the lack of ongoing negotiations.

Preparations for the shutdown have been underway across government agencies. The Office of Management and Budget, led by Russ Vought, has instructed agencies to prepare for not only furloughs but also potential mass layoffs of federal employees. This aligns with the administration's goal of reducing the size of the federal government.

Certain programs will continue to operate during the shutdown. Medicare and Medicaid are expected to remain functional, although some services may experience delays due to staffing shortages. The Pentagon will continue its operations, and most employees at the Department of Homeland Security will remain on duty. However, Trump has warned that the administration may target programs favored by Democrats, potentially cutting funding for those initiatives.

As agencies determine which employees are essential, Smithsonian museums are expected to remain open at least until Monday. A group of former national park superintendents has urged the administration to close national parks to visitors, citing safety concerns due to inadequate staffing during the shutdown.

In the lead-up to the new fiscal year, House Republicans passed a temporary funding bill to keep the government running until mid-November, but it has repeatedly failed in the Senate. The bill requires a 60-vote threshold for approval, necessitating bipartisan cooperation. A Democratic proposal also did not pass. With a 53-47 Republican majority, Democrats are leveraging their votes to demand negotiations.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that Republicans are open to discussing health care issues with Democrats, but not as part of the negotiations to keep the government open. More votes are anticipated on Wednesday. This standoff presents a significant challenge for Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who faces pressure from progressive voters to maintain firm demands for health care funding.

“Americans are hurting with higher costs,” Schumer said following the failed vote. House Speaker Mike Johnson has blamed Democrats for the shutdown, stating, “A lot of good people are going to be hurt because of this.” During a meeting with congressional leaders, Trump expressed surprise at the rising health care costs but left the meeting without a clear path forward for negotiations.

The current shutdown follows a history of significant closures, including a 35-day shutdown during Trump’s first term over funding for a border wall and a 16-day shutdown in 2013 during the Obama administration over health care issues. Other shutdowns have occurred throughout the decades, reflecting ongoing political conflicts over budgetary issues.