The Government Shutdown's Impact On Antitrust

On October 1, 2025, the federal government shut down, causing non-essential government agencies to close temporarily due to a lapse in appropriations. The shutdown has now lasted more than 35 days, making it the longest in U.S. history, surpassing the 35-day shutdown that stretched from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019. Setting aside significant FAA disruptions and flight delays, and the attempt to suspend SNAP benefits, the shutdown has unfolded much like previous ones, but if it continues much longer, the strain on government systems is likely to intensify. This prolonged uncertainty may, in turn, cause companies contemplating mergers or other significant transactions to reconsider the timing of their deals and wait for greater predictability.