WASHINGTON – The U.S. federal government has faced multiple shutdowns throughout its history, often triggered by partisan disputes over funding and policy. Several shutdowns have stretched for extended periods, disrupting government services and impacting the nation. HereS a look at some of the longest:
Oct. 1, 2013 – Oct.17, 2013: 16 Days
Partisan divisions surrounding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), passed by Democrats in 2010 without Republican support, culminated in a 16-day shutdown during President Barack Obama‘s second term. Republicans, controlling the House of Representatives, rejected a spending bill that included funding for the ACA. Democrats,with a Senate majority,countered Republican proposals. The government reopened following bipartisan Senate negotiations that resulted in minor changes to the ACA.
Nov. 14, 1995 – Nov. 19, 1995 & Dec. 16, 1995 – Jan. 6, 1996: 21 Days (Combined)
The mid-1990s saw a prolonged standoff between President Bill Clinton and the Republican-controlled Congress. Disagreements centered on balancing the federal budget. Two shutdowns occurred: a five-day closure in November 1995 and a longer 21-day shutdown spanning the end of 1995 and the beginning of 1996. The shutdowns led to furloughs of federal employees and disruptions in national parks and other government services.A compromise was eventually reached, allowing the government to reopen.
Sept. 30, 1977 – Oct. 13, 1977: 12 Days
During the first year of President Jimmy Carter’s presidency, the government shut down for 12 days. The dispute revolved around funding for Medicaid and whether it should cover abortion care. Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate at the time.
Nov. 10, 1978 – Nov. 26, 1978: 17 Days
A year after the 1977 shutdown, the government closed again for 17 days, marking the longest shutdown in U.S. history at that time.The disagreements involved funding for abortion services and President Carter’s veto of a defense spending bill due to concerns about wasteful spending on a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and water projects. The government reopened after legislation was passed that removed funding for both the aircraft carrier and the water projects, while maintaining a previously agreed-upon compromise on abortion funding-allowing it in cases of rape, incest, and danger to the pregnant person’s health.
