Live updates on government shutdown as funding lapse ranks as third-longest in history
The current government shutdown has persisted, delivering substantial disruptions across federal sectors. As of October 20, 2025, the judicial branch declared it will cease operations due to a lapse in funding. This shutdown, now ranking as the third-longest in history, impacts several crucial federal agencies and functions.
Judiciary Operations Impacted
The federal judiciary announced the inability to maintain full paid operations starting Monday. Essential constitutional functions will persist but without pay for staff. Non-essential employees will face furloughs until the funding issue is resolved.
House Votes and Legislative Breaks
The House of Representatives has not convened since September 19, 2025. Votes scheduled for late September and October were canceled, extending the legislative break. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated a return only after resolution of the funding crisis.
Nuclear Agency Furloughs
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) confirmed impending furloughs. Approximately 1,400 staff face furloughs as funds deplete, with only 375 continuing essential duties. The agency underlines the criticality of maintaining its minimal operational capacity to protect public safety.
Armed Services Committee Concerns
- Rep. Mike Rogers expressed concerns over the NNSA staff reductions.
- The fear of layoffs pertains to managing a strategic nuclear stockpile.
- Rogers highlights the significance of temporarily furloughed workers.
Legal Actions and Political Reactions
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries warned of legal actions due to delays in swearing in Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva. Arizona’s Attorney General Kris Mayes has pressured for immediate swearing-in, linking delays to withheld votes on Justice Department files. Speaker Johnson deems this concern unrelated to the Epstein files topic.
Democratic Stance on Health Care
Democratic leaders insist on securing health care tax credits as part of government funding negotiations. They argue such measures would benefit, not harm, citizens.
Senate Voting Plan
The Senate plans to revisit the GOP funding bill upon its return next Monday. Despite ten failures to secure necessary votes, the strategy aims to reconvene and potentially pass the proposal.
Pay Amid Shutdown
Legislation proposed by Sen. Ron Johnson seeks to ensure payment for federal employees compelled to work during the shutdown. This includes military personnel, aiming to mitigate financial impacts on essential workers.
Department of Homeland Security Payments
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed continued pay for law enforcement personnel during the shutdown. This assurance covers agencies like TSA, ICE, CBP, and Secret Service, though details for all TSA roles remain unclear.
As the government shutdown drags on, the impact on federal operations and workers becomes significant, underscoring the need for resolution.
