WASHINGTON : The shutdown began on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a funding bill, halting key federal operations and leaving thousands of employees without pay.
The deadlock centres on disagreements over healthcare funding and spending priorities. Democrats want to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies to prevent rising insurance costs, while Republicans insist the government should reopen first before addressing health provisions.
Amid public tension, moderate lawmakers have started informal talks to find a compromise. Senator Susan Collins and others are exploring short-term funding options to reopen federal services while negotiations continue.
President Donald Trump has maintained a firm stance, warning of potential job cuts if the impasse drags on. Unions and legal experts have criticised suggestions to withhold back pay for furloughed workers, calling it unfair and unlawful.
Economists caution that the prolonged shutdown could hurt growth and delay public projects worth billions. For federal employees, the wait is growing harder each day as bills pile up and uncertainty deepens.
As the second week unfolds, quiet discussions may be the only hope of restoring normalcy in Washington.
The U.S. government shutdown continues into its second week due to a stalemate over healthcare funding. Democrats advocate for extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, while Republicans prioritize reopening the government. Moderate lawmakers are engaging in informal discussions to resolve the impasse, as the shutdown's impact on federal employees and the economy becomes increasingly severe.