Uncertainty has loomed large in Washington D.C. in recent weeks over the possibility of a government shutdown. Whether it’s the drawn-out negotiations over the federal budget or the daily budget brinkmanship of President Trump, the risk of a shutdown has become increasingly real.
That risk is why many are ditching the crystal ball predictions of a government shutdown and taking proactive measures. On one side, Congress has been attempting to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government running until a budget agreement can be reached. On the other side, organizing groups such as “Indivisible” are working to contact their representatives and urge them to pass legislation to keep the government running.
All of these initiatives have ultimately been in vain. Congress and the President reached an agreement to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government running until mid-January, avoiding a potential shutdown. But this agreement has done little to eliminate the risk of another shutdown. It could be imminent, or it could be weeks or months away, but it’s still possible.
That’s why many are turning away from traditional methods of predicting a government shutdown and taking a more proactive approach. Businesses, non-profits, and other organizations are analyzing past decisions and trends to determine the likelihood of another shutdown. They are preparing for the worst by doing everything from stockpiling supplies to developing emergency budget plans.
At this point, it’s unlikely any amount of crystal ball predictions can accurately tell us if and when the government may shut down in the future. But that doesn’t mean individuals, advocacy groups, and organizations have to sit on the sidelines and wait for the news. These efforts to prepare for the potential of further shutdowns may be the most reliable way of hedging against uncertainty in Washington D.C.
