The federal government has partially shut down after Congress did not agree on funding for several agencies before a deadline of midnight on Saturday. A government shutdown happens when lawmakers fail to pass a spending package for a period of time, usually either the full year or for a shorter period, known as a continuing resolution. This is only a partial shutdown: In this instance, Congress approved annual funding for certain agencies since the last shutdown ended, so those can continue operating while other departments go dark. It’s likely that immigration, border patrol and defense activities funded through the GOP’s tax and spending package will continue. Nearly all DHS personnel will continue working during a shutdown, according to the agency’s most recent contingency plan.

Source: CNN February 01, 2026 16:59 UTC