Federal Government Officially Shuts Down After Congress Fails to Pass Funding Bill

The federal government has shut down as of 12:01 a.m. Wednesday due to Congress's inability to pass a stopgap funding bill. This shutdown leads to furloughs for many federal workers and the suspension of nonessential services, although museums will remain open and Social Security payments will continue. The situation underscores the ongoing struggles in Congress to reach a budget agreement, raising concerns about the impact on government services and the economy.