It's day 33 of the US government shutdown, making it the second-longest in history – just two days shy of the 2018-19 record. But this isn't just a trivia fact; everyday life and big decisions are feeling the pinch.
💼 Data blackout alert! Third-quarter GDP figures were supposed to land this week, but with federal agencies closed, the numbers are on hold until October 30. That leaves investors, businesses, and policymakers flying blind. Without fresh stats, market expectations can go haywire and companies might put projects on hold.
🎖️ Even the military isn't immune. The Treasury and Pentagon had to shuffle around $5.3 billion from defense accounts just to pay troops in October. If Congress doesn't approve funding soon, service members could go without pay by mid-November – jeopardizing training, operations, and new equipment deals.
🍞 Back home, millions of families depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Officials warn that once existing funds dry up, food aid for over 42 million people will stop. Food banks are already bracing for more hungry families, and that could mean longer lines and tougher choices.
As the shutdown drags on, questions loom: How long can vital services hold out? Will lawmakers break the deadlock before the pain deepens? Stay tuned as we track the fallout and what it means for you and the global economy. 🌍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
