Republicans say Democrats want to hand out free health care to illegal immigrants. Democrats accuse Republicans of trying to blow up Obamacare -- again.

And somewhere in the middle, the US federal government is stuck in shutdown mode, with the finger-pointing in full swing over insurance subsidies that millions of Americans rely on.

Here is a look at what's driving a clash that is proving a bitter pill for Americans to swallow.

- Why is Washington shut down? -

Congress failed to pass a bill to keep federal departments and agencies funded and functioning past October 1, triggering a shutdown. The sticking point? Health care.

Democrats are demanding an extension of subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans -- financial aid that keeps premiums affordable for millions.

Republicans --

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