When Was the Last US Government Shutdown? A Complete Timeline

The last US government shutdown happened from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019. It lasted 35 days and became the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The funding lapse happened during former President Donald Trump’s first term after disputes over border wall funding.

Congress is again facing the risk of a shutdown as the October 1, 2025, deadline approaches. Both parties remain divided on spending bills and healthcare-related provisions. Lawmakers are under pressure to avoid another funding lapse as the memory of the last shutdown remains fresh.

A Timeline of Recent US Government Shutdowns

Government shutdowns happen when Congress fails to pass a budget or a continuing resolution to fund federal agencies. Here is a list of the most recent shutdowns and how long they lasted, based on data reported by major outlets such as Reuters, AP, and BBC.

2019 (Trump Administration) – 35 days: The longest shutdown in U.S. history. Started December 22, 2018, and ended January 25, 2019. It stemmed from a dispute over border wall funding.

2018 (Trump) – 3 days: Lasted January 20–22, 2018. Focused on immigration and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

2018 (Trump) – Several hours: Occurred overnight on February 9, 2018, due to budget disagreements but ended quickly.

2013 (Obama) – 17 days: From October 1–16, 2013. Driven by a battle over funding the Affordable Care Act.

1996 (Clinton) – 21 days: Lasted December 16, 1995, to January 6, 1996. Centered on spending priorities and Medicare.

1995 (Clinton) – 5 days: Happened November 13–19, 1995, over budget conflicts with Congress.

1990 (George H. W. Bush) – 4 days: Took place from October 5–9, 1990, due to deficit reduction debates.

Earlier shutdowns under Presidents Reagan, Carter, and Ford were shorter, often lasting one to several days, mostly tied to spending disagreements.

Impact and Why It Matters Today

The 2018–2019 shutdown disrupted services for millions of Americans, delayed pay for federal workers, and cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars. Many federal agencies operated with limited staff, while essential services continued.

As the October 2025 deadline nears, analysts warn that another shutdown could affect everything from airport security to small business loans. Economists also note that repeated shutdown threats shake investor confidence and public trust in government.

The last US government shutdown was in 2019 and lasted 35 days. With Congress once again deadlocked, there is renewed concern about another funding lapse and its impact on the U.S. economy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When was the last US government shutdown?

The last shutdown lasted 35 days from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019.

Q2: How long was the 2018–2019 US shutdown?

It lasted 35 days, the longest shutdown in U.S. history.

Q3: Why did the 2019 US shutdown happen?

It happened due to a dispute over funding for a border wall proposed by then-President Donald Trump.

Q4: How many US government shutdowns have there been?

The U.S. has had 21 shutdowns in the past 50 years, starting from the 1970s.

Q5: What happens during a US government shutdown?

Many federal agencies close or run with limited staff. Federal workers may miss paychecks, and public services can be delayed.

References

Reuters. (2019). U.S. government shutdown ends after 35 days, Trump signs bill to reopen. January 25, 2019.

Associated Press. (2019). Longest government shutdown in U.S. history ends. January 25, 2019.

BBC News. (2019). US government shutdown: How it happened and what’s next. January 26, 2019.