Catenaa, Tuesday, November 11, 2025-The US government shutdown entered its 42nd day Monday, becoming the longest in American history, with no resolution in sight as millions face mounting hardship.
The standoff began October 01, when Congress failed to pass a spending bill amid disputes over healthcare funding and federal budget priorities.
Despite Republicans controlling both chambers, Senate rules require 60 votes to advance legislation -leverage Democrats are using to seek an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire this year.
The deadlock has shut down most federal operations.
More than 1 million employees are working without pay, and 600,000 have been furloughed.
While back pay is legally guaranteed, President Donald Trump’s recent comments have fueled uncertainty.
Essential services are buckling under strain. Airports report widespread delays due to air traffic control shortages.
Smithsonian museums remain closed, national parks have scaled back operations, and IRS backlogs are growing.
Tens of thousands of children could lose access to Head Start programs.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program stopped payments over the weekend, drawing criticism from federal judges. The administration said benefits will resume, though at half the normal amount and with delays.
Both parties continue to blame each other, and repeated Senate votes to approve temporary funding have failed. The White House insists Democrats are obstructing progress, while Senate Republicans have rejected calls to end the filibuster.
Public frustration is rising as the shutdown drags into its sixth week.
