For the third time during Donald Trump’s administration, the federal government has come to a standstill—a direct consequence of leadership that prioritizes partisanship over the well-being of the American people.
On October 1st, 2025, the federal government began a shutdown due to congressional failure to pass appropriations legislation. This shutdown highlights the escalating partisanship that defines decision-making in our government.
The disagreements stemmed from a wide range of budgeting topics, including the funding of government services for the month of October and subsequent months. A primary point of contention is the Democrats’ demand for healthcare subsidies. The Republicans refuse to extend the subsidies, while the Democrats are steadfast in their commitment to cheaper healthcare in America. Neither side is giving in; both are determined to get their way.
Shutdowns have occurred in the past and typically end up being a game of political chicken, where the first party to give in makes concessions and ends the shutdown.
In past shutdowns, the economic consequences were straightforward. The economy will experience a decline in activity, then recover when the shutdown is concluded, according to The New York Times. However, Trump’s current shutdown worries economists more than expected.
During previous shutdowns of similar length, smaller appropriations bills were sometimes passed to mitigate the economic impact. This time, no such funding has been approved. Instead of attempting to boost the economy in a time of need, the administration is considering measures such as workforce reductions and withholding backpay for furloughed workers, despite a 2019 law regarding backpay. These actions could intensify economic effects, highlighting the consequences of the Republicans’ inability to compromise.
Assigning blame is often the first political move made by both sides during a government shutdown. In this instance, despite holding control of every level of power — both houses of Congress and the White House— Republican leaders have found a way to point the finger at someone else. Donald Trump has doubled down on wrongfully blaming the Democrat party on the White House website. The front page currently features a stopwatch highlighting the duration of the shutdown, labeled: “Democrats Have Shut Down the Government.”
Donald Trump and congressional Republicans are treating the economy like a game, and with zero regard for the effects on citizens. The noble cause of cheaper healthcare is worth fighting for; Democrats must remain steadfast in their commitment and stand strong against Republican pressure. It is important to encourage congressional representatives to take a hard-line stance against Donald Trump and the Republican congressional leadership, ensuring not only that this shutdown ends without further economic hardship, but also that the nation’s leaders are held responsible for their actions.
