[U.S. Senate Minority Leader Says Government 'Shutdown' May Last Until November] On October 28 local time, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that the federal government 'shutdown' could last until November. During this period, millions may face high medical insurance costs due to the expiration of tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, hundreds of thousands of federal employees may be forced to take leave, some may have to work without pay, and federal food assistance is also nearing its end.