WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal government shutdown is approaching a historic duration, with lawmakers from both parties showing no signs of compromise. As it stands, the shutdown could potentially eclipse the previous record of 35 days that occurred during Donald Trump’s first term.

Democratic leaders have made it clear that any proposed funding bill must address critical issues such as healthcare for the millions of Americans facing jeopardized insurance coverage amidst the impasse.

Since the shutdown commenced, the ripple effects have begun to be felt across various sectors, impacting workers, government services, and the economy at large.

Furloughs and Firings

According to estimates, nearly 2.3 million civilian employees work for the federal government, with around 750,000 set to be furloughed daily during the shutdown. While essential staff will remain working, both furloughed and active employees face delays in compensation, with many at risk of financial instability.

The situation is dire for the 1.3 million active-duty military personnel, who could have seen significant paycheck delays, but temporary measures have temporarily alleviated this concern.

Economically, a shutdown leads to losses estimated around $400 million per day—money that taxpayers ultimately bear the brunt of. Moreover, President Trump is seeking to leverage the shutdown to cut positions in opposition to his policies, a tactic that raises questions about the integrity of the shutdown practices.

Economic Impact

Historically, government shutdowns have caused slowdowns in economic growth; current forecasts suggest the economy may lose about 0.1% to 0.2% in growth each week. Specific industries, especially tourism, are projected to suffer profoundly, losing upwards of $1 billion weekly as national parks and museums close their doors.

Political Fallout

The political ramifications are also complex, as public opinion remains split regarding fault—many blaming Trump and Republican leadership while others point fingers at Congressional Democrats. As negotiations continue, the broader implications of these discussions could shape the political landscape as both parties grapple with their priorities against a backdrop of rising public dissatisfaction.

Amidst the deadlock, leaders from both sides are steadfast, with Democrats asserting they will not back down and Republicans maintaining that negotiations should not occur under duress. Without a clear path forward, the shutdown's end remains uncertain with each passing day.