U.S. government shutdown begins after Senate rejects spending bill

WASHINGTON, (International Desk) – The United States government has entered a shutdown after the Senate once again failed to pass a spending bill, leaving more than 400 federal agencies closed for an indefinite period.

The White House blamed the Democratic Party for the deadlock, while the ruling party fell short of the 60 votes required to approve the measure in the 100-seat Senate, holding only 53. A previous Democratic-backed bill was also rejected, with 47 votes in favor and 53 against.

The shutdown coincides with the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1, raising concerns over the impact on federal workers and government services.

The U.S. last experienced a prolonged shutdown in 2018 during Donald Trump’s presidency, which lasted 35 days, the longest in American history.