Story perspectives

House Speaker Stalls Action Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

10/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) continues to keep the House out of session amid the government shutdown, now in its tenth day.
Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) is pushing to reconvene and has pledged to decline his paycheck until the shutdown ends.
Donald J. Trump’s comments about negotiating with Democrats have confused GOP leaders.
The administration has begun layoffs of furloughed workers, escalating pressure on both parties.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to October 17, stemmed from a standoff between President Barack Obama and congressional Republicans over the Affordable Care Act. Approximately 800,000 federal employees were furloughed, disrupting essential services and costing the economy an estimated $24 billion. This shutdown reflects ongoing challenges in bipartisan governance, as current tensions echo the political gridlock of that period.

1 of 2

Story summary

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) continues to keep the House out of session amid the government shutdown, now in its tenth day.
Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) is pushing to reconvene and has pledged to decline his paycheck until the shutdown ends.
Donald J. Trump’s comments about negotiating with Democrats have confused GOP leaders.
The administration has begun layoffs of furloughed workers, escalating pressure on both parties.

1 / 2