The United States government shutdown has now reached its 36th day, setting a new record as the longest closure in American history. The impasse, which began on October 1, stems from Congress’s failure to agree on a new funding deal. This has left hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay and disrupted essential services for millions of Americans. Despite weeks of gridlock between Democrats and Republicans, there are faint signs of potential progress. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a top Republican, expressed cautious optimism, stating that a breakthrough might be imminent. The previous record for a government shutdown was 35 days, set during President Donald Trump’s first term in 2019. The ongoing shutdown has had severe consequences, with thousands of federal workers missing paychecks and growing concerns about disruptions to air travel. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that parts of U.S. airspace might have to be closed if the shutdown continues, as 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay. Low-income Americans relying on government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) are also feeling the strain. While a court ruling ensured partial SNAP benefits this month, President Trump has suggested he may defy the order unless Democrats agree to reopen the government. Efforts to pass a short-term funding bill have repeatedly failed in the Senate, with Democrats demanding healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans and Republicans accusing them of holding the government hostage. As the November 21 funding deadline approaches, there is increasing pressure for a compromise, with some moderate lawmakers signaling a willingness to negotiate ahead of Thanksgiving.