Summary
The U.S. government shutdown has reached its 40th day, affecting federal employees and many Americans' access to services. Federal workers have been furloughed, food assistance programs face cuts, and air travel has been disrupted due to political disagreements over spending priorities in the Senate. Efforts to end the shutdown have so far been unsuccessful.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government shutdown began on October 1 and has lasted 40 days.
- Around 750,000 federal employees are furloughed, meaning they are temporarily out of work without pay.
- The shutdown impacts food assistance programs, like SNAP, which helps low-income Americans buy groceries.
- Air travel across the U.S. is disrupted due to employee shortages, leading to flight cancellations and delays.
- The U.S. Senate has failed to agree on 14 funding measures to end the shutdown.
- Democrats and Republicans disagree on spending priorities, including healthcare subsidies and social programs.
- The Federal Aviation Administration reported significant staffing shortages affecting air travel in major cities.
- President Trump stated he will only restore food aid once the government reopens.
