WASHINGTON D.C. Oct 1, 2025 — Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has accused Democrats of precipitating a government shutdown, warning of severe consequences for critical programs such as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition assistance, veterans’ health care, and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) operations. The potential shutdown, set to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, would be the first under a Republican-controlled government since the 35-day shutdown in 2019 during President Trump’s administration.
Johnson’s remarks come as the Senate voted down two competing spending proposals on Tuesday, failing to avert the crisis. The Speaker emphasized the impact on vulnerable populations, stating, “Moms and kids now lose WIC nutrition. Veterans lose health care and suicide prevention programs. FEMA has shortfalls during hurricane season. Soldiers and TSA agents go unpaid.”
Recent analyses highlight the broader implications of a shutdown:
– WIC Program at Risk: ABC News reported on September 26, 2023, that nearly 7 million women and children could lose access to WIC nutrition assistance, crucial for low-income families.
– Veterans’ Services: Military Times noted on September 30, 2025, that while veterans’ health care and benefits processing would continue, other VA services would halt, affecting suicide prevention and homelessness programs.
– FEMA Operations: CNN’s coverage on September 29, 2025, warned that FEMA’s response to hurricanes could be compromised due to personnel losses and leadership changes, potentially exacerbating the impact of natural disasters.
– TSA and Essential Workers: News4JAX reported on September 29, 2025, that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers, considered essential, would work without pay, which could lead to operational disruptions and longer security lines at airports.
The political standoff underscores the divide between Republicans, who hold a slim majority in both the House and Senate, and Democrats, who oppose President Trump’s proposed policy changes. The failure to pass a spending bill has left the nation on the brink of a shutdown, with significant ramifications for federal employees and the public services they provide.