As of Monday, the ongoing partial government shutdown became the third-longest ever. A government shutdown can occur when Congress fails to pass sufficient appropriation bills or continuing resolutions to fund federal government operations or agencies, or in the case that the President refuses to sign into law such bills or resolutions.
This shutdown began on December 22 when nine federal departments and several smaller agencies – which combined represent one-quarter of the federal government – ran out of money and had to close doors over a budget dispute between the White House and Congress.
While there is no end in sight, past shutdowns could shed light in how this one may play out. Test your knowledge of shutdown showdowns.
The Trump Administration isn’t the only one which has battled a stalemate between the executive and legislative branches. Learn about how many shutdowns occurred during these administrations, whether or not government shutdowns are unique to the United States, and which shutdown affected the most workers.