What a day-end shutdown could mean for citizens and agencies

Washington is just hours away from yet another federal government shutdown, with prospects looking rather bleak for a last-minute compromise in Congress to avoid federal closures beginning at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday (October 1, 2025).

Republicans have crafted a short-term measure to fund the government through November 21, but Democrats have insisted that the measure address their concerns on health care. They want to reverse the Medicaid cuts in President Donald Trump's mega-bill that passed this summer, as well as extend tax credits that make health insurance premiums more affordable for millions who purchase through the marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act. Republicans say the Democratic proposal is a non-starter.

Neither side is showing any signs of budging, with the House not even expected to have votes this week.