And the longer it goes on, the longer the military and ICE goes without pay (they are promised backpay once the govt starts up again).

How many weeks can this continue without significant effects?

  • Over 1 million active-duty military members and contractors may not receive their October 15 paychecks if Congress does not pass legislation.
  • Essential federal employees, including military personnel and ICE agents, must continue to work without pay during the shutdown.
  • While workers are entitled to back pay after the shutdown ends, President Trump has suggested some furloughed employees may not “deserve” it.