Hungry, unemployed and angry Americans. This is the price of Donald Trump's persistence

Thousands of federal officials still receives no salary. In the case of previous shutdowns, the money was finally paid out, but with a delay, after the crisis had ended. But many of these workers, like so many ordinary Americans, live paycheck to paycheck. Interestingly, members of Congress and Trump himself continue to receive their salaries.

It is estimated that approx. 670 thousand government employees were sent on leave, and approximately 730,000 works without pay. The fact is that many of them are afraid for their jobs because the government has previously announced permanent job cuts.

In a show of solidarity, some Washington restaurants and bars are offering special discounts with ID, and airlines are handing out meals to injured workers.

The economy is slowing down

There is no doubt that The federal budget freeze is hitting the economy on many fronts. Civil servants who do not receive salaries cut back on spending, which immediately affects consumer sentiment across the country. The private sector is also starting to feel the effects of the lack of contracts.

It is estimated that if the paralysis lasts from four to eight weeks, the American economy will lose “forever” from 7 to 14 billion dollars. (i.e. approx. PLN 28-57 billion).

By “permanent” losses, economists mean that part of the lost economic activity that it can't be made up anymore — even after offices resume work and arrears are paid.

Food aid in doubt

According to government data, about 42 million Americans use food stamps. Now many of them can stay deprived of this help. Those most at risk are low-income families, single parents and seniors for whom food assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provide essential support.

Recently, a federal judge issued a temporary order ordering the Trump government to maintain state food aid.

Tourists will have to be patient

Flight delays and cancellations are increasing in air traffic. Tourists who want to go to the United States must take into account that the time for processing a visa application will be longer.

Passengers wait for their flights amid nationwide cancellations and delays at Ronald Reagan Arlington International Airport. USA, November 7, 2025PAP

Culture is also affected by problems – many institutions belonging to… [największego na świecie kompleksu muzeów] Smithsonian Institution, remains closed. National parks are open, but without active visitor centers, which significantly limits tourist access.

Will Trump face the consequences?

According to polls, the current budget crisis is to blame most Americans blame Republicans.

Perhaps this is one of the reasons why Democrats achieved such a good result in the local elections held on November 5. New York elected left-wing Democrat Zohran Mamdani as its new mayor, and two candidates also from the Democratic Party won in the gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia. These results are considered as an important mood barometer ahead of the key congressional elections in November 2026.

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“Festival of Wrath”

At the end of November, one of the most important holidays in the USA is approaching – Thanksgiving. During this period, hundreds of thousands of people go on the road and spend time with their loved ones.

With already limited staff at airports, sudden changes to travel plans could further inflame tempers and deepen frustration in the country.

During the second-longest government paralysis in 2018–2019, Trump was also president. Only when the majority of society blamed Republicans for blocking the budgetand economic losses began to accumulate, both parties sat down for talks and found a temporary agreement.