Deadline

If American lawmakers trigger the next looming government shutdown, it will cut whatever legs are left from under the table of democracy

A second government shutdown is on America’s doorstep in 2025. Federal government funding expires at midnight on September 30 unless Congress passes a continuing resolution (CR) to keep agencies operating.

Here’s where the matter stands. Proponents of a shutdown say forcing a lapse creates leverage for deeper cuts, policy riders, and tighter control over…