The United States entered a partial government shutdown on Saturday after Congress failed to pass the 2026 federal budget by the midnight deadline.

The lapse in funding comes amid a dispute over new allocations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), following the fatal shootings of two protesters in Minneapolis by federal immigration agents.

Democrats have resisted approving DHS funding without reforms, calling for tighter oversight, stricter warrant requirements, and limits on enforcement tactics.

Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin criticized the administration for targeting peaceful protesters instead of criminals, saying, “This administration continues to make Americans less safe.”

About 75% of federal operations could be affected if the shutdown lasts more than a few days, putting tens of thousands of federal workers at risk of unpaid leave or forced work without pay. Agencies have been instructed to implement shutdown protocols, though congressional leaders expect any disruption to be brief.

Late Friday, the Senate passed a package covering most federal agencies through September, along with a two-week stopgap to keep DHS operational while immigration negotiations continue.

The House of Representatives, currently out of session, is expected to vote on the deal early next week. President Donald Trump has backed the Senate package, urging quick action to avoid a prolonged shutdown.

Republicans remain divided over concessions for immigration enforcement, while Democrats insist on reforms in response to the Minneapolis shootings.