The U.S. federal government officially entered a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. EDT on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass a funding resolution. Around 750,000 federal workers face furloughs or possible dismissal, while thousands of offices may close - some permanently.

President Trump, in unusually stark rhetoric, warned he would “do things that are irreversible, that are bad” in retaliation, signaling possible deep cuts or reorganization of federal programs. The administration has directed agencies to prepare for mass firings rather than traditional furloughs - a significant escalation from past shutdowns.

Essential services such as national defense, law enforcement, and social security will continue, but many government operations—including education, environmental oversight, and scientific research—are expected to halt or slow. Economic ripple effects are anticipated quickly: daily losses estimated at $400 million and disruptions in public services, benefits, and data releases.

With no immediate resolution in sight, Washington braces for a protracted standoff - one that may permanently reshape the scope of federal operations.