Current Affairs - International - Discussion

The United States ended its longest government shutdown after a 42-day political standoff, which severely disrupted federal operations and affected hundreds of thousands of government employees. The shutdown was rooted in disagreements between Democrats and Republicans over healthcare subsidy provisions linked to the Affordable Care Act. Progress stalled in the Senate due to the 60-vote requirement, but bipartisan support emerged when eight Democratic senators crossed party lines, allowing the bill to move forward. Following congressional approval, President Donald Trump signed a temporary funding bill that reopened government services. Although the measure provided only short-term relief, it restored essential services and allowed federal agencies to resume normal operations while budget negotiations continued.