The last shutdown, under Trump’s administration, lasted 35 days
A US government shutdown could be imminent if a temporary funding bill fails to pass in Congress today (March 11).
US Faces Potential Government Shutdown as Trade War Escalates
As the US-Canada trade war heats up, Americans could soon face yet another major challenge—a looming government shutdown.
While Donald Trump downplayed the possibility, telling reporters the shutdown “probably won’t” happen, its fate hinges on today’s crucial vote on a continuing resolution (CR) bill.
The Clock is Ticking
Back in December, House Speaker Mike Johnson introduced a temporary spending bill to keep government operations running—but that funding expires this Friday, March 14. If Congress fails to pass another CR bill in time, the government will be forced into a shutdown, disrupting federal operations and leaving thousands of workers without pay.
The last shutdown—which stretched a record-breaking 35 days from December 2018 to January 2019—also occurred under Trump’s administration, triggered by his $5.7 billion demand to fund his controversial US-Mexico border wall.
Will Congress Strike a Deal?
On March 8, House Republicans proposed a CR bill that would fund the government through the end of the 2025 fiscal year (September 30). However, it still requires a vote today.
If lawmakers fail to reach an agreement by midnight, the US will enter its first shutdown in six years—a move that could have devastating economic consequences.
Will Congress step up in time? Or is the US headed for another costly shutdown? The nation is watching closely.
The Devastating Impact of the Last Shutdown: A $11 Billion Setback
The 35-day government shutdown that took place from December 2018 to January 2019 wreaked havoc on the US economy, with estimates from the Congressional Budget Office pegging the cost at a staggering $11 billion.
Federal Workers Left in Limbo
A shocking 380,000 federal workers were furloughed, while another 420,000 were forced to work without any guarantee of when—if ever—they’d get paid.
Delays and Disruptions Across the Nation
The IRS faced massive delays in processing $140 billion worth of tax refunds, putting financial plans on hold for millions of Americans. Meanwhile, the FBI saw significant disruptions in ongoing investigations, crippling national security efforts.
Airports Grounded
Airports were closed and flights delayed due to critical staff shortages at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The shutdown’s ripple effect was felt nationwide.
What Could Happen If a Shutdown Hits Again This Week?
If Congress fails to pass a resolution, the US faces the threat of another shutdown, which could once again disrupt government services, delay critical payments, and impact national security—all while costing billions of dollars.
The Ripple Effect of a Shutdown: What It Could Mean for America
If the government shuts down this week, the effects could be as far-reaching as those of the 2019 shutdown, impacting everything from essential services to public programs.
What Would Keep Running?
- In-hospital medical care will remain operational.
- Law enforcement and border protection services will continue.
- Air-traffic control will keep planes in the skies, ensuring safe travel.
What Could Be Affected or Shut Down?
- Student loans could be delayed or temporarily halted.
- Food assistance programs may see disruptions, leaving vulnerable Americans without support.
- Federally-funded preschools could close their doors, impacting families across the country.
- National parks might close, depriving tourists and visitors of one of America’s natural treasures.
Potential Impact on Benefits
- Benefit verifications and card issuance could stop, creating delays for those relying on federal benefits.
- However, Social Security and Medicare checks would continue to be mailed, offering some stability during uncertain times.
What About Federal Workers?
- Essential federal workers will still report to work, but there’s a chance they may do so without pay.
- Non-essential workers will be put on unpaid leave until the shutdown ends.
Longer Shutdown, Worse Effects
As the shutdown drags on, the negative consequences will only worsen. Carter Langston, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, warned:
“An extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports.”
The longer the government remains shut down, the greater the impact on everyday Americans.
