The United States government shutdown has officially become the longest in the nation’s history, entering its 36th day as lawmakers failed once again to pass a funding bill, leaving millions of federal workers without pay and threatening essential services. This milestone was reached on November 4, 2025, when the shutdown surpassed the previous record of 35 days set in 2019, highlighting a deepening political crisis in Washington.
The Senate failed for the 14th time to advance a House-passed continuing resolution in a 54-44 vote, falling short of the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster. No additional Democrats crossed party lines to support the measure, despite expressions of optimism from some Republicans that the impasse could end soon. The vote occurred against a backdrop of intense partisan divisions, with both sides blaming each other for the prolonged stalemate over government spending and policy priorities.
Approximately 2 million federal employees are working without pay, while 900,000 have been furloughed, causing significant financial hardship and disrupting government operations. Critical services are at risk, including air travel, as Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that certain parts of airspace might need to be closed if the shutdown continues into next week due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. This could lead to mass flight delays and cancellations, exacerbating the shutdown’s impact on the economy and public safety.
The political deadlock centers on disagreements over appropriations and policy riders, with President Trump and Republican leaders pushing for changes, while Democrats demand concessions on issues like extending health insurance tax credits. Bipartisan talks have hinted at a potential deal, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune stating that some lawmakers recognize the shutdown has ‘gone on long enough’ and it is time to end it. Discussions include extending the funding deadline to January to avoid a year-end omnibus bill, as House Speaker Mike Johnson ruled out a December extension over concerns about past spending practices.
One of the most contentious issues involves the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), with the Trump administration initially causing confusion by suggesting benefits would not be paid until the shutdown ends, despite a federal court order to use contingency funds. White House officials later clarified they are complying with the order, but delays are expected, affecting tens of millions of Americans who rely on food assistance. This has raised alarms about food insecurity and the administration’s adherence to legal mandates during the crisis.
Behind the scenes, negotiations are intensifying, with some Republicans, like Senator Markwayne Mullin, expressing confidence that the shutdown could be resolved this week, possibly as early as Wednesday or Thursday. Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, are exploring all options, with internal party divisions on whether to accept promises of a vote on health care tax credits in exchange for reopening the government. The outcome of Tuesday’s elections may influence the timing, as some speculate Democrats were waiting to avoid discouraging their base from turning out.
As the shutdown drags on, its economic and social impacts are mounting, with fears of broader consequences if it persists. Lawmakers from both parties have indicated that a resolution may be imminent, potentially involving a package of full-year appropriations bills alongside a continuing resolution. The focus now is on reaching a bipartisan agreement that addresses funding needs while providing a path forward to prevent future crises, as the nation grapples with the longest government shutdown in its history.