Story perspectives

U.S. Government Shutdown: 750,000 Furloughed Amid Crisis

10/1/2025

Center

Trump Faces Shutdown

The U.S. government shut down on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement—the first since 2018.
About 750,000 federal workers are furloughed, with essential staff working without pay and back pay to be issued when the government reopens.
President Trump indicated possible mass layoffs during the shutdown.

Right

Norman Seeks Shutdown Fairness

Rep. Ralph Norman has reintroduced a constitutional amendment to suspend congressional pay during government shutdowns.
The amendment would bar compensation for lawmakers during any shutdown, pending ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures.
Norman cites fairness for federal workers and public sentiment against lawmakers profiting from shutdowns.
The shutdown remains contentious, with both parties blaming each other and federal services affected.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. government shutdown from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019, lasted 35 days, marking the longest in history. It stemmed from a funding impasse over President Trump's demand for $5.7 billion for a border wall, affecting approximately 800,000 federal employees. This event underscores ongoing congressional tensions regarding budget negotiations and accountability for lawmakers during shutdowns.

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Trump Faces Shutdown

The U.S. government shut down on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement—the first since 2018.
About 750,000 federal workers are furloughed, with essential staff working without pay and back pay to be issued when the government reopens.
President Trump indicated possible mass layoffs during the shutdown.

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