Despite many members of Congress being away during the government shutdown, a number of workers in Washington, D.C., are still laboring hard without pay.
These individuals, earning between $50,000 and $200,000, are anxiously wondering when the government will reopen. They are resorting to loans and dipping into savings just to manage daily expenses.
According to a memo from Catherine Spindall, the Chief Executive of the House of Representatives, House staff were informed last month that their salaries for October, scheduled for the 31st, would be delayed until a funding agreement is reached.
The ongoing shutdown has broken records, becoming the longest in U.S. history. This week, bipartisan discussions in the Senate aimed to resolve the stalemate, but no agreement has been finalized yet.
The memo indicated that any delayed salary payments would be processed promptly once the Appropriations Act is enacted.
Uncertainty has caused a bit of panic among House workers, who receive their pay only once a month. Their last paycheck was on September 30th.
One Democratic staff member shared, “My wife and I just got married in June, and we had to tap into our wedding savings to cover our daily expenses, which is, well, not ideal.” This sentiment is echoed by many unnamed officials cited in the piece.
With the holiday season approaching, staffers admitted feeling heightened stress. “We usually host family gatherings, but without pay, how will we manage all the Thanksgiving preparations?”
Republican aides discussed draining savings set aside for future home purchases, indicating a broader concern about financial stability.
Many staff are exploring short-term loan options. The Congressional Federal Credit Union is providing furlough relief loans of up to $20,000 with zero interest for 60 days, helping some to stay afloat.
Another House Democratic staff member noted that a $10,000 withdrawal would at least help him stay financially stable for a couple of months. However, the ongoing shutdown might force staff to seek other income sources.
“People in our situation, including me, want to be self-sufficient. Do you call up your parents for help? Asking for money is uncomfortable,” the staff member explained.
The Senate’s attempts to advance a Republican stopgap measure, a continuing resolution to fund the government through November 21, have failed multiple times. This proposal previously passed the House along party lines. House Speaker Mike Johnson remarked that the length of the shutdown was unexpected.
Expressing frustration, one Republican staffer questioned, “What’s the benefit of keeping the government closed? It seems all we need to do is gather everyone and vote yes on the resolution.”
On the other hand, some Democrats feel emboldened by recent electoral victories in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York, suggesting a potential mandate to continue their shutdown strategy. “This election success boosts our resolve to push back against the current administration,” said one Democratic staffer. “If it takes another month of frugal living, so be it. I hope we can find a solution that justifies our struggles.”
The Senate is expected to vote again on the stopgap measure soon. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is contemplating incorporating a three-bill spending package into negotiations with Democrats.
Still, it’s uncertain whether enough Democratic lawmakers will agree to a deal, especially as they seek concessions on health care. A minimum of eight Democratic votes is necessary to advance the bill, though only three members have thus far sided with Republicans.
As the shutdown drags on without a clear resolution, staff members are finding ways to unwind without spending too much. One Republican aide mentioned returning to crafting projects using items he had at home.
“Shutdowns are definitely a hot topic in the office, and it’s what I’m focused on at work. Everyone needs a break at some point,” he acknowledged.
Another Democratic staffer shared that he’s been enjoying sports and small gatherings with friends who, like him, are also furloughed. “With so many people out of work, I think the community is more connected than ever. It has its chaotic moments, but at least I’m seeing more friends than before.”
