Why Does the U.S. Government Shut Down? A government shutdown in 2025 would occur when Congress fails to pass funding legislation. The U.S. operates on an annual budget, and if lawmakers cannot agree on spending bills before the deadline, non-essential government services cease operations. Shutdowns happen due to political disagreements, often over budget priorities, social programs,... https://www.federalpensionadvisors.com/post/government-shutdown-2025