U.S. Government Shutdown Becomes Second-Longest in History Amid Political Stalemate
The federal government shutdown has now stretched to 22 days, marking the second-longest funding lapse in U.S. history. Only the 35-day shutdown in December 2018 under the same administration surpasses it. Political gridlock shows no signs of resolution as Democrats push for expanded Affordable Care Act tax credits, while Republicans refuse to negotiate until operations resume.
Market observers brace for prolonged disruption as Senate procedural rules require 60 votes to pass funding—a threshold neither party can meet unilaterally. The impasse reflects deepening partisan divides over healthcare policy, with millions facing potential premium hikes if tax credits expire as scheduled this year.