The White House has officially declared a government shutdown after the Senate failed to pass a measure to continue funding federal operations. The bill, backed by the GOP, did not receive the 60 votes required to move forward.
Democrats blamed Republicans for not working in good faith, especially as the Democratic party has been pushing for initiatives to lower health care costs for Americans.
During a shutdown, essential federal employees are required to continue working, often without pay, until Congress approves funding. These employees include military personnel, air traffic controllers, and law enforcement officers.
One role that is not financially affected during a shutdown is the presidency. According to a 2018 Congressional Research Service report, the president's salary of $400,000 per year is protected by Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution. The clause prevents any reduction in the president’s compensation while in office.
This marks the 15th government shutdown since 1981, continuing a long pattern of political gridlock that leaves federal workers and government operations in limbo.