Chronicle of U.S. Government Shutdowns: A History of Political Standoffs

Since 1980, U.S. federal shutdowns have resulted from budget disputes in Congress, halting numerous government operations. Historic standoffs include the 2018-2019 shutdown over border wall funding and the 1995-1996 impasse influenced by President Clinton's budget disagreements. The ongoing 2025 shutdown is linked to debates over healthcare subsidies.

Thousands of U.S. federal workers halted operations on October 1 due to a Congressional budget deadlock. Since 1980, some federal employees have faced furloughs when budget agreements faltered.

The longest shutdown, lasting 35 days, spanned from December 2018 to January 2019 as President Donald Trump sought border wall funding. The current shutdown, already 23 days, sees Democrats demanding healthcare subsidy extensions, while Republicans push for separate negotiations.

In past shutdowns, political clashes have frequently emerged, from President Clinton's budget battle in 1995-1996 to 2013's dispute over healthcare law under President Obama. These have often culminated in significant political and public reactions.

(With inputs from agencies.)