US federal workers have described their state of uncertainty, with many now on unpaid leave due to a government shutdown and one remarking that their salary was being 'held hostage'. Workers deemed essential may still be on duty or at their desks, but they too may not be paid while the shutdown lasts. A government shutdown is a familiar situation in the US, occurring when Congress fails to vote through an annual budget. This one began on Wednesday, characterized by partisan disputes over federal spending and Democratic demands to extend healthcare tax credits. What makes this shutdown different is President Donald Trump’s intention to use the opportunity for permanent cuts to government staffing and spending.
BBC News has been speaking to federal workers about their views and how the shutdown has affected them. Although most comments are anonymous due to media restrictions on government staff speaking out, these workers have shared their struggles. A federal worker reflecting on past shutdowns recalled, 'The last shutdown was brutal,' and shared how he had to withdraw from his retirement plan to cover bills. Another worker noted his conflicting feelings, supporting the shutdown as a necessary check on government power, even while facing financial uncertainty.
Some workers, like those in the Army Corps of Engineers, expressed ambivalence, seeking both a break from work pressures while hoping for productive outcomes from the shutdown. Many voiced frustration over the financial hold on their pay amid political disputes, while others stressed the need for healthcare support in ongoing budget talks. Amid these concerns, a Treasury employee urged the opposing party to remain resolute against the ongoing pressures from Trump's administration regarding healthcare funding. The shutdown continues to destabilize lives, leaving federal workers in a precarious balance of duty without compensation.
BBC News has been speaking to federal workers about their views and how the shutdown has affected them. Although most comments are anonymous due to media restrictions on government staff speaking out, these workers have shared their struggles. A federal worker reflecting on past shutdowns recalled, 'The last shutdown was brutal,' and shared how he had to withdraw from his retirement plan to cover bills. Another worker noted his conflicting feelings, supporting the shutdown as a necessary check on government power, even while facing financial uncertainty.
Some workers, like those in the Army Corps of Engineers, expressed ambivalence, seeking both a break from work pressures while hoping for productive outcomes from the shutdown. Many voiced frustration over the financial hold on their pay amid political disputes, while others stressed the need for healthcare support in ongoing budget talks. Amid these concerns, a Treasury employee urged the opposing party to remain resolute against the ongoing pressures from Trump's administration regarding healthcare funding. The shutdown continues to destabilize lives, leaving federal workers in a precarious balance of duty without compensation.
