With less than 24 hours remaining to pass a federal budget, the United States stands at the edge of its fourth government shutdown in a decade. A late-night meeting between congressional leaders and the White House concluded without resolution early Thursday, as Republican lawmakers insist on a no-strings-attached stopgap funding bill while Democrats push to safeguard healthcare subsidies and food assistance programs.
The impasse highlights deepening political fractures in Washington, with House Speaker Mike Johnson calling Democratic demands "fiscally irresponsible" and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer accusing Republicans of "holding basic governance hostage." A shutdown would immediately furlough 800,000 federal workers and disrupt services from national parks to passport processing.
For Asian markets, the stalemate introduces fresh uncertainty. Analysts warn that prolonged closure could weaken the dollar and complicate Federal Reserve rate decisions – factors that may ripple through export-driven economies. "Asian central banks are watching closely," said Singapore-based economist Li Wei. "Any extended U.S. dysfunction could accelerate regional currency volatility.\p>
The potential crisis comes as over 4 million Asian Americans face possible delays in tax refunds and small business loans. International travelers are advised to monitor visa and airport operations, though essential services like air traffic control will continue.
Historical data shows previous shutdowns cost the U.S. economy $3-5 billion weekly. As negotiations resume, all eyes remain on Capitol Hill – where the clock ticks toward a midnight deadline that could freeze Washington's gears.
