Why did the U.S. government shut down and how long could it last? What to expect

With the U.S. government officially shut down, how long could the closure last and why is it happening? Democrats are demanding funding for health care subsidies that are expiring for millions of people under the Affordable Care Act, causing the insurance premiums to spike nationwide. The Medicare and Medicaid health care programs are expected to continue, though staffing shortages could mean delays for some services. Health and healthcareThe Medicare and Medicaid health care programs are expected to continue, though staffing shortages could mean delays for some services. Social Security payments still go out, and seniors relying on Medicare coverage can still see their doctors and health care providers can be reimbursed.