Federal Government Shutdown Enters Second Week With 750,000 Furloughed

The U.S. federal government has been shut down since October 1, 2025, due to Congress's failure to agree on a funding bill, leaving approximately 750,000 nonessential federal workers furloughed and many government services disrupted. Republicans insist on passing a clean continuing resolution to extend funding, while Democrats demand inclusion of an extension for ACA premium tax credits. The shutdown affects various sectors, including real estate transactions requiring flood insurance and causes delays for businesses relying on federal loans and approvals. Tribal nations such as the Muscogee (Creek) and Cherokee Nations report minimal impact on their health systems and services due to financial stability and self-sustainability. Senate Democrats have introduced a resolution to terminate President Trump's national energy emergency amid the standoff, and the Senate is expected to vote soon on potential measures to end the shutdown. The standoff continues as both parties blame each other, with Democrats emphasizing healthcare provisions and Republicans attributing the impasse to Democratic demands ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.