US Government Shutdown Reaches Record 35 Days, Hurting Millions Across the Country

Post by : Sameer Saifi

The United States has entered the 35th day of its government shutdown, tying the record for the longest in American history. The political fight between Republicans and Democrats has left millions of Americans struggling, with government workers unpaid, food aid stopped, and economic activities slowing down.

The shutdown began more than a month ago when Congress failed to agree on a budget to keep the government running. Both sides continue to blame each other. President Donald Trump and the Republicans say Democrats are blocking funds to pressure the government over healthcare programs. Democrats say the administration is ignoring the needs of ordinary Americans and putting politics above people.

Across the country, the effects are being felt deeply. Federal workers, from airport staff to law enforcement officers, are missing paychecks. Many cannot pay their rent, buy food, or meet family expenses. Some have turned to food banks for help. About 42 million people who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, have lost their monthly food aid. For the first time in U.S. history, this support has been stopped because of political disagreement.

In New Mexico, Jason Riggs, the head of the Roadrunner Food Bank, said the situation was “unprecedented” and that many families are scared about how they will feed their children this month. The Head Start program, which helps poor children with early education, is also facing closures in several states because new funds have not been released since November 1.

The travel sector is also in crisis. With no pay and low morale, many airport screeners and air traffic controllers have called in sick or stopped working, leading to long lines and flight delays. Airline groups report that more than 3.2 million passengers have faced delays or cancellations since the shutdown began. The U.S. military and law enforcement agencies are also affected, as many soldiers and officers are working without pay.

The Congressional Budget Office says the shutdown could cost the U.S. economy about $11 billion if it lasts another week. Because many government offices are closed, the Federal Reserve is not receiving key data it needs to guide economic decisions. Analysts warn that the longer the shutdown continues, the more serious the damage will be to the economy and national confidence.

The Senate has already voted many times on a temporary funding bill, but no agreement has been reached. Republicans hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate but need at least seven Democrats to pass most laws. Democrats have refused to vote in favor unless healthcare subsidies are added to the package. Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune blamed Democrats, saying, “The victims of the Democrats’ shutdown are starting to pile up.” But Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump for focusing on personal projects during the crisis, saying, “While Donald Trump is bragging about remodeling bathrooms, Americans are panicking about how they will afford healthcare next year.”

Since 1981, the U.S. has faced 15 government shutdowns, but this one is different because of its length and the lack of serious talks to end it. The House of Representatives has been out of session since mid-September, and President Trump has spent time away from Washington during the crisis. Rachel Snyderman from the Bipartisan Policy Center said, “The tensions between the two parties remain as deep as ever.”

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that half of Americans blame Republicans for the shutdown, while 43 percent blame Democrats. Both parties are losing public trust. President Trump has said he will not agree to any deal that he believes is a form of “extortion” by Democrats. He has also urged Senate Republicans to end the 60-vote rule that requires bipartisan support for major bills.

Some moderate Democrats have voted with Republicans to reopen the government, arguing that the harm to workers is too severe. Others say they must hold their ground to stop what they call Trump’s abuse of executive power. Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey said, “The trust deficit has been there for a long time because of how Trump has acted. Even if we get a deal, how do we know it will be honored?”

As the shutdown continues, the real suffering is among ordinary Americans. Many are waiting for their salaries, for food aid, and for the government to function again. The shutdown has become more than a political fight—it is now a test of leadership and responsibility. The world’s largest economy cannot afford to stand still, yet its leaders remain trapped in a power struggle that helps no one. Until Washington finds a solution, millions of families will keep waiting for stability and hope.

#trending #latest #USShutdown #GovernmentCrisis #CongressDeadlock #TrumpAdministration #EconomicImpact #AmericanWorkers #armustnews