2025 Government Shutdown: 16 Claims Fact-Checked & Explained
As speculation grows about a possible U.S. government shutdown in 2025, NextMinuteNews investigated 16 common claims to clarify what’s true, false, or uncertain. With budget negotiations stalled and political tensions rising, here’s what we’ve verified—and what remains unclear.
1. “The 2025 Shutdown Is Inevitable”
Status: False
A shutdown isn’t guaranteed. Historically, last-minute deals (like in 2019 and 2023) have prevented crises. Both parties face voter backlash, making compromise probable.
2. “Essential Services Will Continue”
Status: True
Critical operations—defense, healthcare, law enforcement—will persist. Non-essential agencies (e.g., national parks, IRS audits) may pause.
3. “Federal Employees Won’t Be Paid”
Status: Partially True
Non-essential workers face delayed pay but typically receive backpay later. Essential staff (e.g., TSA, military) must work without immediate pay.
4. “The Economy Will Crash Immediately”
Status: Exaggerated
Short shutdowns (1–2 weeks) have minor effects. Extended closures could cut GDP growth by 0.1% weekly (Moody’s Analytics).
5. “Social Security Checks Will Stop”
Status: False
Mandatory spending (Social Security, Medicare) continues. However, new applications or customer service may slow.
6. “Military Operations Will Halt”
Status: False
Active-duty troops remain deployed, but pay delays may occur. The Pentagon uses contingency funds.
7. “National Parks Will Close”
Status: Likely True
Most parks shut down during past shutdowns, though some states (e.g., Utah in 2013) funded reopenings.
8. “IRS Audits Will Pause”
Status: True
Tax collection continues, but audits and refunds slow. The IRS operates with minimal staff.
9. “Air Travel Will Be Disrupted”
Status: Possible
TSA and air traffic controllers work unpaid, risking delays if absenteeism spikes (as in 2019).
10. “Visa and Passport Processing Stops”
Status: Partially True
Routine services slow, but emergencies (e.g., death overseas) are prioritized. Expect backlogs.
11. “Stock Markets Will Plummet”
Status: Unverified
Markets often dip pre-shutdown but recover quickly. Prolonged shutdowns (>30 days) could trigger volatility.
12. “Congress Will Still Get Paid”
Status: True
Lawmakers’ salaries are constitutionally protected, unlike federal workers’. Some donate pay during shutdowns.
13. “Government Contracts Will Freeze”
Status: Likely True
New contracts may stall, but critical projects (e.g., defense) often continue.
14. “Food Stamps (SNAP) Will Run Out”
Status: False
SNAP funds last 30–60 days post-shutdown. States may tap reserves if Congress doesn’t act.
15. “Federal Research Grants Will Dry Up”
Status: True
NIH, NSF, and NASA pause new grants, disrupting universities and scientific projects.
16. “This Shutdown Will Be the Longest Ever”
Status: Speculative
The record is 35 days (2018–19). While 2025 could rival it, predictions are premature.
Why This Matters
Shutdowns destabilize lives, strain services, and cost billions. Even short closures delay paychecks, disrupt travel, and erode public trust.
What’s Next?
Congress has months to negotiate. Public pressure often forces deals—track updates at NextMinuteNews.
Edited by: NextMinuteNews Fact-Check Team
Sources: CBO, GAO, Congressional Research Service
Note: This article will update as new details emerge.
