Explained: Why the US Government Has Entered a Partial Shutdown

The US government has slipped into a partial shutdown not because Congress failed entirely, but because immigration politics once again outran legislative timelines.

What exactly has happened?

The US federal government entered a partial shutdown early Saturday, after Congress failed to fully approve a funding package before the midnight deadline. While the Senate passed a stopgap deal, the House of Representatives is not expected to vote until Monday, triggering a temporary lapse in funding for some government operations.

Why is this being called a ‘partial’ shutdown?

Because most federal agencies remain funded. The Senate-approved bill extends funding for the bulk of the government until September, but separates out the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—which is funded for only two additional weeks. This allows lawmakers to keep most operations running while continuing negotiations over immigration enforcement.

Why is DHS at the centre of the dispute?

DHS oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal immigration agencies. Democrats have refused to approve long-term DHS funding without new restrictions on immigration enforcement tactics, following the fatal shooting of a US citizen, Alex Pretti, in Minneapolis by a federal agent. The shooting—one of two such deaths involving immigration agents this month—sparked public outrage and a Justice Department civil rights investigation.

What changes are Democrats demanding?

Democrats want stricter oversight of immigration enforcement, including: mandatory body cameras, a ban on agents wearing face masks, visible identification for officers, limits on roving patrols and judicial warrants for searches, not internal approvals. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has framed the issue as a civil liberties test, warning Democrats will not back funding without “real change.”

How did the Senate vote?

The Senate passed the revised funding package 71–29, with bipartisan support. Only five Republicans voted against it. The vote was cleared after Republican Senator Lindsey Graham lifted a procedural hold in exchange for a future vote on banning sanctuary cities.

Why hasn’t the House approved it yet?

Timing. The House of Representatives is out of session and will not reconvene until Monday. Under House rules, the bill will require a two-thirds majority to pass. Until then, the partial shutdown remains in effect. 

How serious is this shutdown compared to previous ones?

Relatively limited. This is the second shutdown in the past year, but it is unlikely to be prolonged or disruptive like the 43-day shutdown in late 2025—the longest in US history—which cost the economy an estimated $11 billion. The White House has directed agencies to prepare for an “orderly shutdown,” expressing hope the lapse will be brief.

Which departments are affected right now?

Agencies including transportation, education, and defence have been instructed to activate shutdown protocols, though essential services continue. Federal employees may be asked to report to work temporarily to wind down operations.

What happens over the next two weeks?

Lawmakers plan to use the two-week DHS funding window to negotiate immigration enforcement reforms. Republicans have indicated openness to some oversight measures, but significant differences remain. President Donald Trump has urged Republicans—who control the House—to approve the deal and avoid escalation.

What’s the bigger picture here?

This shutdown highlights a familiar reality in Washington. While immigration enforcement remains one of the most volatile issues in US politics, even bipartisan funding deals can unravel over policing and civil rights. Shutdowns are increasingly used as pressure tools, not last resorts. In short, the government isn’t shutting down because lawmakers can’t govern but because they can’t agree on how power should be exercised.

(With inputs from ANI)