Over the past five decades, the US government has shut down 21 times before shutting down Oct. 1, 2025.

The longest government shutdown , which lasted 35 days, occurred from December 2018 to January 2019 due to an impasse with Congress and the Trump administration over funding for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.

After Congress failed to act before 11:59 ET on Sept. 30, thousands of government workers again face furloughs or delayed paychecks, and services will be disrupted.

Here's a look at the past government shutdowns, going back to 1970s. Live updates: Government shutdown enters first day as Trump and Democrats spar

1976 government shutdown

Under President Gerald Ford. Lasted for 11 days.

1977 government shutdown

Under President Jimmy Carter. Lasted 12 days.

1977 governm

See Full Page