Summary: The U.S. is on the brink of a massive government shutdown, with several bills needed to keep funding flowing stuck in Congress. Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and the U.S. Postal Service will not be affected, but an estimated 4 million workers, including half of the active-duty military and reservists, could be impacted. The shutdown could drain $5 billion a week from the economy, As per the American Federation of Government Employees. The duration of the shutdown is uncertain, and far-right House Republicans are pushing for further federal spending cuts.
What happens if the government shuts down? A lot, history tells us
The U.S. is barreling toward a potentially massive government shutdown, with each funding bill stuck in Congress. If the shutdown occurs, about 4 million workers, including half of the active-duty military, could be impacted. The American Federation of Government Employees estimates that the economy could lose $5 billion per week due to the shutdown. Far-right House Republicans are pushing for more federal spending cuts, further complicating the situation.
The Impact on Workers and the Economy
Union officials and experts warn that the shutdown could have a devastating impact on workers and the economy. Up to 4 million workers, including active-duty military personnel, could be affected. The American Federation of Government Employees estimates that $5 billion per week in wages could be drained from the economy. This shutdown is expected to be larger in scope than previous ones, with potentially dire consequences.
Uncertainty and Political Disagreements
The duration of the possible shutdown is uncertain, as far-right House Republicans are pushing for further federal spending cuts. President Joe Biden and House Republicans had previously agreed on a spending cap, but some Republicans are not satisfied with the agreement. This political disagreement and uncertainty add to the challenges and potential negative consequences of a government shutdown.
