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Story perspectives

Federal Workers Struggle as Shutdown Leaves Them Unpaid

10/5/2025

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers are working without pay amid the shutdown.
At San Ysidro, about 60,000 vehicles pass daily, while housing and groceries feel uncertain.
The American Federation of Government Employees reports broad frustration among federal workers due to the stalemate.
The union is mobilizing resources to aid affected workers with essentials like food and utilities.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to October 17, furloughed approximately 800,000 federal employees due to a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act. This marked the third-longest shutdown in U.S. history, echoing earlier conflicts like the 1995-1996 shutdown. The ongoing impact on federal workers today highlights the vulnerability of essential services during political standoffs.

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Story summary

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers are working without pay amid the shutdown.
At San Ysidro, about 60,000 vehicles pass daily, while housing and groceries feel uncertain.
The American Federation of Government Employees reports broad frustration among federal workers due to the stalemate.
The union is mobilizing resources to aid affected workers with essentials like food and utilities.

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