US shutdown: Millions of workers affected, $400 million lost every day

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): It has been more than 24 hours since the US government shutdown, but the deadlock between Republicans and Democrats remains unresolved. The war over health insurance subsidies has worsened the situation. Due to the shutdown, approximately 750,000 government employees are on unpaid leave, while essential service personnel such as the military, border security, and air traffic controllers are working without pay. According to the Congressional Budget Office, approximately $400 million is being lost every day.

Democrats say the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) subsidies are necessary, otherwise insurance premiums will rise. Republicans oppose them, calling them "unnecessary handouts." President Donald Trump has accused Democrats of "holding the public hostage," while Democrats say Trump is "using the public as pawns."

National parks, museums, and monuments are closed, including landmarks like Pearl Harbor, Pennsylvania's Liberty Bell, and Missouri's Gateway Arch. Government contracts and projects are also on hold. A prolonged shutdown could severely impact the economy and investor confidence.

Vice President J.D. Vance and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer are engaged in a heated exchange of words. Trump has hinted that furloughs could turn into permanent layoffs, raising concerns among workers. Experts say that if a solution isn't found soon, this shutdown will prove extremely costly for both the American public and the economy.