The United States federal government partially shut down as the clock struck midnight Monday, after Congress failed to pass a budget to fund the federal government into fiscal year 2014.<br/> <br />House Republicans and Senate Democrats were unable to reconcile their differences on the Affordable Healthcare Act, known as 'Obamacare'.<br/> <br />President Barack Obama released this message to U.S. troops, moments after the clock struck midnight.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE (English) U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING:<br/> <br />"I know the days ahead could mean more uncertainty, including possible furloughs...And I know this comes on top of the furloughs that many of you already endured this summer. You and your families deserve better than the dysfunction we're seeing in Congress."<br/> <br />The consequences of the shutdown mean at least 1 million federal employees could face see cuts in their paychecks.<br/> <br />Military personnel are set to continue on normal duty status but many department of defense civilian emplo
