how does the government shutdown affect us

A government shutdown affects the public by halting many federal services and programs, furloughing hundreds of thousands of federal employees who are put on unpaid leave, and causing delays or suspensions in non-essential government activities. Essential services related to national security, public safety, and emergency care continue but may face disruptions. Key impacts include travel delays due to reduced airport security and air traffic control staffing, slower processing times for passports and visas, suspension or reduction of food and nutrition assistance programs, and potential delays in social security and veteran benefits services. National parks and museums may close, and regulatory and research activities can be delayed or halted. Federal employees and contractors, especially non-essential ones, face financial hardship during shutdowns. Although critical programs like Social Security payments generally continue, some administrative services may be affected. Overall, shutdowns disrupt daily life for many Americans and can have adverse economic effects.