Federal Government Shuts Down After Senate Fails to Pass Funding Resolution

Image courtesy Canva

The federal government officially entered a shutdown after the Senate failed to approve a continuing resolution to fund operations through November 21. The measure fell 5 votes short of the 60 needed for passage, ending in a 55–45 vote.

Senator Jerry Moran noted that 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills had already advanced through the Senate Appropriations Committee, with three bills passing the full Senate before the August recess—the first time that has occurred since 2019. He said the continuing resolution was designed to prevent disruptions and give lawmakers time to complete the remaining spending bills.

Senator Roger Marshall blamed Senate Democrats for blocking the resolution, calling the shutdown a result of partisan disagreements. Representative Sharice Davids highlighted the impact on Kansans, warning of delays in federal employee and military pay, interruptions to Social Security, and increased hardship for families relying on federal food programs. Congressman Derek Schmidt also criticized additional spending demands by Democrats and urged a quick resolution to continue the appropriations process.

The shutdown leaves federal employees, programs, and services nationwide in limbo as lawmakers remain deadlocked over budget priorities.

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