NOTE to Students: Before answering the questions, read the “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources” below.

1. What is a continuing resolution?

2. Why didn't Congress pass a CR before October 1 this year?

3. What spending measures are Democrats demanding Republicans agree to before they will vote for a CR?

4. Why are Republicans opposed to all of the spending demands the Democrats are making?

5. a) Re-read "Why are Democrats blocking a continuing resolution?" under "Background" below the questions. Do you support or oppose the Medicaid cuts that were included in the bill that was signed into law by President Trump in July? Explain your answer.
b) Ask a parent the same question.

6. The US federal government has approximately 2.3 million civilian employees. (Including military personnel, the total federal workforce is around 4.5 million.)
a) How many federal government employees belong to the American Federation of Government Employees?
b) What is AFGE president Everett Kelley calling on Democrats to do?
c) What are the negative effects of the government shutdown, according to Mr. Kelley?

7. Since the shutdown began, Republicans have held at least six votes on a continuing resolution (CR) in the Senate. All six of these votes failed to pass because they did not reach the required 60-vote threshold.  Democrats are blocking it from passing.
a) Do you think the Democrats at this point should vote to pass the CR and reopen the government, or should they hold out in an attempt to force the Republicans to give in and agree to their spending demands? Explain your answer.
b) Ask a parent the same question.