U.S. on the Brink of Government Shutdown: Key Stakes Explained

With the deadline just hours away, the U.S. is on the brink of a government shutdown, and tension is mounting in Washington.

A recent high-stakes White House meeting ended in deadlock: Republicans are pushing for a clean short-term extension, while Democrats demand protections for health and social programs. Both sides blame each other, underscoring a deeply divided government on the brink of crisis.

Here’s what could happen if the clock runs out:

• National services: Closure of national parks and delays in visa and passport processing.
• Paychecks at risk: Federal employees and contractors may face unpaid furloughs.
• Economic jitters: Markets could see increased volatility amid fiscal uncertainty.

For global citizens—from entrepreneurs awaiting U.S. grants to travelers with pending visas and investors watching market signals—a shutdown is more than a domestic drama. It’s a reminder of how political gridlock can ripple across borders.

With every hour that passes, the question remains: can lawmakers bridge the divide before services grind to a halt? All eyes are on Washington.

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U.S. on brink of government shutdown

cgtn.com