Democrats, Republicans trade blame as US government shutdown begins

The U.S. government shut down at 12:01 a.m. after both Democratic and Republican spending bills failed to pass, leaving federal agencies without funding. Democrats pushed to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies and reverse Medicaid cuts, while Republicans offered a seven-week funding extension. Essential services including the Postal Service, Social Security, Medicare, courthouses, and the military remain open, while TSA operations continue with most employees working without pay. The shutdown will only end once Congress passes, and the President signs, funding bills. With the Senate requiring 60 votes, moderate lawmakers could play a key role in deciding how long the shutdown lasts.