U.S. government shutdown fallout: Workers unpaid, services halted

The US federal government has entered a partial shutdown after Congress failed to pass a funding bill by the midnight deadline, leaving thousands of federal employees facing furloughs, unpaid work, and potential layoffs.

The deadlock stems from Democrats rejecting a Republican-backed continuing resolution that would have extended funding until November 21, citing frustration over being excluded from negotiations and the omission of healthcare subsidy extensions.

While House Republicans pressed the Senate to adopt their bill, Democrats returned to Washington to push for changes, escalating tensions.

The Office of Management and Budget has directed agencies to implement shutdown plans, with around 750,000 workers expected to be affected daily and public services, including the Capitol Visitor Center and Library of Congress, closed until a deal is reached.

Image credit: Heidi Kaden