US Government Shutdown LIVE: Flights, Mail Services Continue, DOT Furloughs Staff

Government Shutdown LIVE Updates

The United States government has officially entered a shutdown from 12:01 am today, as Democrats and Republicans in Congress failed to reach an agreement. The impasse risks furloughs and possible permanent layoffs for thousands of federal employees, while critical services continue to function.

According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), project reimbursement reviews have been halted due to furloughed staff. However, essential operations like flights and mail services are expected to run normally despite the shutdown.

Former President Donald Trump reportedly suggested that the administration could use the shutdown to carry out mass layoffs of federal workers beyond the temporary furloughs, sparking fresh political debate.

When Was the Last US Government Shutdown?

The current shutdown is the first in nearly seven years. The last government shutdown occurred in 2018 during Donald Trump’s first term, which was considered a “partial shutdown.” It lasted for 35 days, becoming the longest government shutdown in US history, and affected a wide range of federal services.

What Does a Government Shutdown Mean?

A US government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass sufficient funding legislation. As a result:

• Non-essential services are halted.

• Essential or “excepted” employees (those who work to protect life and property) remain on duty.

• These employees are required to work without pay until funding is restored.

• Federal workers face uncertainty with furloughs or even permanent layoffs depending on how long the shutdown continues.

Political Reactions to the Shutdown

Former President Donald Trump has shown little willingness to compromise on Democratic demands, particularly on health care funding. He is expected to attend a key meeting on Monday with:

• Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD)

• House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA)

• House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY)

• Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY)

This meeting will determine whether a compromise can be reached to reopen the government.

Conclusion

As the shutdown unfolds, federal employees and agencies face uncertainty, while core services like flights and mail continue without interruption. With both parties locked in a political standoff, all eyes are on Washington to see how long this US government shutdown will last and what impact it will have on ordinary Americans.