https://creditnews.com/policy/mccarthy-historic-ousting-sows-fear-over-government-shutdown/

The threat of a federal government shutdown is back on after a group of Republicans ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. It was the first time in American history that a lawmaker revolt dethroned a House speaker.

McCarthy’s ousters have paved the way for weeks of government dysfunction that could paralyze Congress at a critical time. Lawmakers have until Nov. 17 to extend government funding or risk a shutdown—something they narrowly avoided last week when they struck a deal at the 11th hour.

In the meantime, Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) has assumed the role of temporary House speaker until lawmakers can decide on a permanent replacement.

“The House will be paralyzed; we can expect week after week of fruitless ballots while no other business can be conducted,” said Representative Tom McClintock, a Republican from California.

While government shutdowns are nothing new—the U.S. has experienced 22 shutdowns since 1976—the latest upheaval in Congress appears to be more than just political grandstanding.

Some lawmakers have been blunt about what could happen next.