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The US government has shut down after congressional Democrats blocked a Republican funding bill, demanding concessions on healthcare. Republicans, controlling both houses, rejected these demands, leading to a legislative stalemate. This is the first shutdown since 2018. Democrats cite Republican refusal of bipartisan talks and risking healthcare, while Republicans blame "far-left Democrat interests." The White House threatened mass federal worker layoffs. Democrats seek ACA premium credits and Medicaid/public media funding, costing an estimated $1 trillion, while Republicans aim to pass a bill without policy changes first.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.