Government shutdown becomes longest in US history

November 5, 2025

The United States government shutdown has reached 36 days, surpassing the previous record of 35 days set during Trump's first presidency in 2019. The impasse stems from Congressional disagreement over funding legislation, with Democrats demanding healthcare subsidy extensions for low-income citizens while Republicans view this as an unrelated policy demand. Federal employees have missed multiple paychecks, and essential services including food assistance programs and air travel operations face severe disruptions, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warning that portions of airspace may need closure due to unpaid air traffic controllers.

Who is affected

Thousands of federal government workers missing paychecks
Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and airport staff working without pay
One in eight Americans (low-income individuals) dependent on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Millions of Americans without essential government services
Air travelers facing potential flight delays and cancellations
Democrats and Republicans in Congress
Moderate Democrats and Republicans seeking compromise

What action is being taken

The Republican-controlled Senate is repeatedly voting on a short-term funding bill (14 attempts as of Tuesday)
About 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay
Contingency funds are being used to provide partial SNAP benefits following a court order
Moderate Democrats and Republicans are negotiating to find a deal

Why it matters

This is the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, creating unprecedented disruptions to essential services and financial hardship for federal workers. The shutdown threatens critical infrastructure, particularly air travel safety, with potential airspace closures that could cause mass chaos across the transportation system. Low-income Americans face food insecurity as assistance programs operate with limited funding, affecting one in eight people nationwide. The prolonged political deadlock demonstrates the severe consequences of partisan gridlock on everyday citizens' lives and national operations.

What's next

Senate Majority Leader Thune indicated that progress needs to be visible by mid-week to complete legislation by week's end
Both chambers will need to pass new legislation since the original House-passed bill's November 21 deadline is no longer viable
Moderate lawmakers are working toward reaching a deal ahead of Thanksgiving on November 27
If no compromise is reached, Transportation Secretary Duffy warns of mass flight delays, cancellations, and potential airspace closures within a week

Read full article from source: BBC