The clock is ticking.
Federal funding expires Tuesday at midnight, and without a deal, the U.S. government shuts down at 12:01 a.m.
Wednesday. Congress is in a high-stakes standoff, and agencies are bracing for impact. Here’s what you need to know.
Deadline Approaches
- Funding runs out September 30.
- Shutdown would begin Wednesday, October 1 at 12:01 a.m.
- White House has already ordered agencies to prep contingency plans.
The House Move
- House passed a “clean” continuing resolution (CR).
- Extends current funding through November 21.
- Struggling in the Senate, where Democrats want more.
The Senate Standoff
- Democrats pushing for healthcare subsidies and Medicaid funds in any stopgap.
- Republicans resisting add-ons, prefer a clean CR.
- Standoff makes compromise unlikely before deadline.
Trump’s Role
- Trump has signaled opposition to Democratic demands.
- Meeting with congressional leaders is the pivot point.
- His leverage could decide if a deal materializes.
Agencies Bracing
- Health agencies: 41% of staff face furlough.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: jobs report could be delayed.
- Judiciary: says it can’t sustain full operations past October 3.
What Shuts Down
- National parks, museums, grant programs, and most regulatory work.
- Many services for veterans and the poor face disruption.
- Non-essential employees furloughed.
What Stays Open
- National security, air traffic control, border patrol, Social Security checks.
- Essential staff work without pay until shutdown ends.
- Furloughed workers guaranteed retroactive pay by law.
White House Twist
- Administration hinting at permanent layoffs, not just furloughs.
- Would mark a sharp break from past shutdown handling.
- Raises stakes for federal workers.
Odds Right Now
- High risk: No deal as of Monday night.
- Shutdown odds rise without Senate action Tuesday.
- Only a last-minute compromise or Trump-brokered deal avoids it.
Bottom Line
A shutdown on Wednesday looks increasingly likely. The deciding factor: whether Senate Democrats back down on health funding demands, or Trump shifts course. Until then, federal workers, markets, and the public should brace for impact.
