The United States has entered the 35th day of its government shutdown, tying the longest stretch of halted federal operations in American history. With travel surges predicted ahead of one of the busiest holiday periods, officials warn the crisis is poised to deepen — especially across airports nationwide.
The shutdown began when Congress failed to approve funding beyond September 30, and since then, the impact has steadily widened across the country. Millions relying on public assistance programs now face uncertainty, including families dependent on grocery aid to put food on their tables. Approximately 1.4 million federal workers — spanning critical roles from park rangers to air traffic controllers — have been furloughed or forced to work without pay.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued a stark warning yesterday, highlighting the possibility of severe travel disruptions if funding remains stalled. “If we go another week, you will see mass chaos,” he said. “Flights canceled, major delays, and possible closure of airspace. We simply cannot operate safely without our workforce fully supported.”
The American Automobile Association forecasts a record-breaking 5.8 million domestic travelers during the Thanksgiving weekend. Yet with more than 60,000 TSA agents and air traffic controllers currently unpaid, the risk of mass sick-outs, staffing shortages, and cascading delays looms large — a situation reminiscent of the 2019 shutdown crisis.
As key elections conclude across several states, some lawmakers hope political pressure will accelerate a resolution. Still, both parties remain entrenched, primarily clashing over healthcare subsidies crucial to millions of Americans. A few moderates on Capitol Hill have floated bipartisan compromise proposals, but leadership on both sides shows little urgency to back down.
Meanwhile, President Trump reaffirmed his refusal to negotiate without concessions, asserting he would “not be extorted.” His administration has also signaled the possibility of halting grocery support programs — affecting 42 million Americans — before courts temporarily intervened. Though the White House later clarified compliance with legal obligations, uncertainty remains over future benefit disbursements amid the stalemate.
