The government shutdown entered uncharted territory on Nov. 5, 2025, becoming the longest in United States history as it dragged on to its 36th day.
While this shutdown has been dominating the headlines of every major news outlet, there are many citizens who may not actually know what a government shutdown means and where the root of the problem lies.
A shutdown occurs when Congress is unable to agree on the appropriations bills for the upcoming fiscal year. These bills pertain to the money that will be used to fund various government agencies that assist millions of Americans in their everyday lives.
For these bills to be passed, at least 60 members of the Senate must vote in favor of these appropriations. The shutdown transpired when Republicans and Democrats could not come to an agreement on the allocations for the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Currently, Republicans have the majority with 53 seats, compared to the Democrats with 45 seats, and Independents with two. In order to reach a resolution, at least five Democrats have to deviate from their party and vote in favor of the Republican proposal, assuming that both Independents rule in favor of it as well. Due to the polarization that is permeating throughout American politics it has become a significant challenge to garner the 60 votes needed to pass the bill.
The government shutdown has had a severe effect on many Americans’ lives. For instance, thousands of government workers are not permitted to work due to the lack of funding within certain agencies. As a result, they are unable to maintain their salaries through the shutdown while the budget is still being debated. For the occupations that have been deemed essential, these citizens are still required to work without pay. For example, military personnel, air traffic control, and medical workers in federal facilities.
On top of this, the government shutdown has affected millions of Americans’ access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This program allows low-income families to have easier access to fresh and nutritious foods that are typically more expensive. Consequently, these families have become more reliant on the free meals provided by schools. Since federal funding sustains these programs, those affected are not safe from the growing uncertainty surrounding the lasting effects of this shutdown.
As of Nov. 5, 2025, the Senate has voted 14 times on the resolution to restore the government to its typical order. Republicans are blaming Democrats for the shutdown due to their refusal to reach an agreement, thus prolonging the negative effects. On the other hand, Democrats are blaming Republicans for not coming up with a bipartisan resolution that they can vote for with a good conscience.
It is very easy to point fingers at a side that you don’t agree with; however, it is very apparent that there are issues coming from both sides of the aisle. The bottom line is that millions of Americans are being negatively affected by the shutdown, and it is concerning that the government isn’t able to negotiate a plan that will alleviate the stress and uncertainty of many. In the end, it is unlikely that a bipartisan resolution will come about, but some sort of decision needs to be made quickly for everyone’s sake.
Can’t get enough of HC UMass Amherst? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, listen to us on Spotify, like us on Facebook, and read our latest Tweets!