**Title: Government Shutdown Looms as Negotiations Stall**

As a government shutdown approaches, President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance are warning that federal funding is on the verge of lapsing. With just hours left for Congress to reach an agreement, hundreds of thousands of federal workers face the prospect of being furloughed or laid off. The shutdown is set to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, local time, if a new spending bill is not approved.

A government shutdown occurs when federal agencies temporarily close due to a lack of funding. Non-essential federal employees are placed on unpaid leave, while those in essential roles, such as social security and immigration control, must continue working without pay until the shutdown ends. Tim Hagle, a political science professor at the University of Iowa, described government shutdowns as "more like a pause" rather than a complete halt. He noted that while some government functions cease, many continue to operate.

Historically, the U.S. has experienced several government shutdowns, with the longest occurring during Trump's presidency from December 2018 to January 2019, lasting 35 days. During that time, approximately 340,000 federal employees were furloughed. Shutdowns typically arise from disagreements over the federal budget, particularly when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills before the current budget expires.

This year, the deadlock centers on healthcare benefits. Democrats are advocating for an extension of tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire at the end of the year. The new fiscal year begins on October 1, but without an approved appropriations bill, a shutdown is likely. A bill to extend government funding for seven weeks has passed the House but is stalled in the Senate, requiring at least 60 votes to advance.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer accused Republicans of refusing to negotiate on healthcare benefits, stating, "It's only the president who can do this. We know he runs the show here." Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader John Thune insisted that Republicans would not be held hostage by Democratic demands.

The potential shutdown could have significant consequences. Federal employees may face delayed paychecks, impacting their ability to meet financial obligations. Hagle warned that the effects might not be immediately visible, as essential services like national defense and law enforcement would continue. However, past shutdowns have led to disruptions in air travel and national parks, with reports of overflowing garbage and closed facilities.

Trump has shown little willingness to negotiate, instead threatening to cut programs and lay off government workers if a shutdown occurs. He has also mocked Democrats on social media, further escalating tensions. As the deadline approaches, both parties appear entrenched in their positions, with little indication of a compromise.

The stakes are high, as millions could face increased insurance premiums if healthcare subsidies are not extended. Democrats are pushing for immediate action to maintain these subsidies, which were initially established during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist low- and middle-income individuals.

With the clock ticking, the outcome remains uncertain as both sides prepare for a potential shutdown that could have far-reaching implications for federal employees and the economy.