US Economist: Government Shutdown May Cause More Chaos, "A Nightmare" for Citizens

The US federal government shutdown continues, and American economist Dean Baker stated in an interview that this is undoubtedly a "nightmare" for many Americans, as numerous families may struggle to make ends meet. He warned that with the Thanksgiving holiday travel season approaching in late November, the US aviation system will face severe issues, leading to more chaos.

As of November 5 local time, the US federal government shutdown entered its 36th day, breaking the historical record of the 35-day shutdown from late 2018 to early 2019 and becoming the longest government shutdown in US history.

Dean Baker noted that due to the federal government shutdown, the US air traffic control system is suffering from a shortage of personnel. "Many air traffic controllers are unable to receive their salaries and are forced to seek alternative livelihoods, leading to a continuous slowdown in the aviation system."

Moreover, this record-long shutdown has inflicted significant harm on American citizens. Dean Baker added, "Approximately 42 million people may lose their access to relief benefits, making it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods. This is undoubtedly a nightmare for them. Additionally, food stores and supplies in many areas could fall into chaos."

Dean Baker further pointed out that, in fact, due to partisan disputes, the US has experienced multiple federal government shutdowns in its history, and the "trigger" for this one is no exception. Since the two parties remain deeply divided, particularly with the Republican Party showing little willingness to compromise, they are "largely unwilling to demonstrate sincerity to break the deadlock."

The Washington Post analyzed that the current US administration aims to use the shutdown to advance its federal workforce reduction plan, shut down "Democratic-led agencies," and mass-dismiss federal employees. This would achieve the goal of "streamlining the government" while further expanding its own executive power.