Story perspectives

Government Shutdown Delays Jobs Report Amid Immigration Dispute

2/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The partial government shutdown began on January 31, 2026, delaying the January jobs report and other key Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
The shutdown stems from disputes over immigration policies, following the shooting deaths of two citizens by federal agents in Minnesota.
Furlough notices have begun for federal workers, with significant impacts anticipated at the Labor Department and other agencies.
Congress is expected to vote on a funding package soon, but uncertainty remains about the outcome.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown stemmed from a budget impasse between President Barack Obama and House Republicans, primarily over the Affordable Care Act. This standoff, which began on October 1, 2013, led to the furlough of 800,000 federal workers and an estimated $24 billion economic loss. The shutdown highlighted ongoing partisan divisions in Congress, affecting future budget negotiations.

1 of 2

Story summary

The partial government shutdown began on January 31, 2026, delaying the January jobs report and other key Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
The shutdown stems from disputes over immigration policies, following the shooting deaths of two citizens by federal agents in Minnesota.
Furlough notices have begun for federal workers, with significant impacts anticipated at the Labor Department and other agencies.
Congress is expected to vote on a funding package soon, but uncertainty remains about the outcome.

1 / 2