United States government has entered a partial shutdown after Congress failed to approve a 2026 federal budget before the midnight deadline.
The funding lapse followed a breakdown in negotiations triggered by Democratic opposition to recent fatal shootings of protesters in Minneapolis by federal immigration agents.
Lawmakers remain divided over immigration enforcement and funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
Despite the shutdown, congressional leaders say disruption is expected to be limited, as the House of Representatives is scheduled to vote early next week on a Senate-backed funding package.
If approved, government operations could resume within days.
However, a prolonged shutdown could place tens of thousands of federal workers on unpaid leave or require them to work without immediate pay.
Late Friday, the Senate passed a package covering funding for most federal agencies through September, alongside a temporary two-week measure to keep DHS operational while negotiations continue.
President Donald Trump has endorsed the deal, urging lawmakers to act quickly to prevent a drawn-out shutdown, the second of his current term following last year’s record-length stoppage.
Meanwhile, political tensions remain high.
Democrats are demanding tighter oversight of immigration enforcement, while Republicans warn against measures they say could weaken border security.
Federal agencies have begun preparing for shutdown procedures, though officials at the Office of Management and Budget expressed hope that the interruption will be brief.
