U.S. shutdown becomes second-longest on record…enters 22nd day

The U.S. federal government shutdown (temporary closure) has continued into its 22nd day, making it the second-longest shutdown on record. With little chance of an early resolution, the political standoff is becoming prolonged.

On the 22nd (local time), according to economic news channel Walter Bloomberg, the shutdown has continued because Senate Democrats refused to pass a short-term budget bill. The bill was submitted by Republicans but drew opposition because funding for health insurance and some welfare programs was excluded.

The longest shutdown in U.S. history lasted about five weeks in 2018 amid a dispute over immigration funding during the Trump administration. The current shutdown is also the second prolonged case to occur during President Trump's tenure.

Political analysts warned, "If this shutdown is prolonged, economic damage from delays in federal agencies' work and disruptions to public services could increase."