The government shutdown is mainly targeting the massive cuts in medical assistance for the poor and middle class. It can be a bit, or more than a bit, confusing so I will attempt to explain what is happening. Cause of Government ShutdownA government shutdown happens when Congress fails to pass the necessary funding bills to keep government agencies running. A prolonged shutdown can have significant negative effects on the economy and public opinion, which no one in Congress wants to be blamed for. The government shutdown doesn’t prevent tax cuts or spending cuts; the political fight that causes the shutdown does.