Here’s How the Government Shutdown Could Affect You

During a shutdown, tasks considered ‘essential’ will still be carried out. But which operations come to a halt, and how does it affect public services?

A view of the U.S. Capitol Building on Sept. 23, 2025. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

WASHINGTON—Congress has failed to pass a short-term funding bill by its Oct. 1 deadline, and the government has shut down.

The White House and Republicans have been locked in a standoff with Democrats over a stopgap bill that would fund the government through Nov. 21.