Fourth Day of Shutdown Leaves Millions Affected as Congress Remains at Impasse
Breaking News Overview
The United States federal government entered its fourth day of shutdown on Saturday, October 5, 2025, after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement. The Senate has rejected competing proposals from both Republicans and Democrats, pushing the crisis into next week with no clear resolution in sight.
What Caused the Government Shutdown?
The shutdown began at 12:01 AM ET on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass appropriations bills or a continuing resolution (CR) to fund federal agencies into the new fiscal year. The deadlock centers on disagreements over Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that are set to expire at the end of 2025.
Republicans have proposed a “clean” continuing resolution to fund the government through November 21, while Democrats are pushing for legislation that would make expiring ACA tax credits permanent.
Key Impacts on American Citizens
National Parks and Museums
Many national parks across the country have closed, though the Smithsonian museums, research centers, and National Zoo will remain open through at least October 11.
Federal Employees
Thousands of federal employees have been furloughed or are working without pay. The Trump administration has signaled that thousands of government layoffs could begin soon.
Social Security and Medicare
Social Security and SSI recipients will continue to receive their checks, though some services like proof of benefits letters may be delayed.
Military and Veterans
Military personnel will continue their duties but will not receive paychecks during the shutdown. Veterans Health Administration facilities should remain largely operational.
Student Loans and Financial Aid
The 2026 FAFSA filing season continues, but the Department of Education has warned that website information may not be maintained and inquiries may not receive responses.
Political Standoff Intensifies
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he expects the shutdown to extend into next week after both parties’ proposals failed in Senate votes on Friday. House Speaker Mike Johnson has designated October 7-13 as a district work period, meaning the House will not return until at least mid-October.
President Donald Trump has tasked Project 2025 architect Russ Vought with identifying federal jobs to eliminate, though the White House has declined to confirm whether they are directly following the controversial policy blueprint.
What Services Continue During Shutdown?
Essential services that remain operational:
- Air traffic control and TSA security
- Border patrol and customs
- Military operations
- Social Security payments
- Medicare and Medicaid services
- Emergency management (FEMA)
- Law enforcement agencies
