The federal government shut down at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, after Democrats in Congress failed to reach a deal with Republicans and President Donald Trump to extend funding for federal agencies.

The lapse in finances means crucial government functions - from small business loan services to national parks to job training for veterans - will stop until lawmakers approve more money. Federal work vital to national security will continue, though employees, including many service members and law enforcement officers, will go unpaid.

The shutdown is the first since January 2019, and the fourth of Trump’s two terms. White House officials this time, though, have signaled plans to use the closed agencies as a way to vastly reshape the federal government and consolidate power under the presidency.

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