As the federal shutdown hits day 28, political gridlock deepens, with little sign of a deal despite rising public and financial pressure.

The impact of the federal government shutdown on the air traffic control system in the United States could linger on well beyond the reopening of the government.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps about one in eight Americans buy groceries. A halt to SNAP benefits would leave a gaping hole in the country’s safety net. Vulnerable families could see federal money dry up soon for some other programs, as well.

The federal government shutdown continues on Monday, Oct. 20, marking the third-longest shutdown in U.S. history, surpassed only by the 1995 and 2018-2019 shutdowns. Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona said on Sunday, Oct. 19 that lawmakers could reopen the government this week if the Republicans are willing to discuss health care subsidies now.

The ruling came the same day as Democrat-led states sued the federal government for pausing SNAP benefits for November.

A prolonged shutdown of the U.S. government amid a standoff over funding between Republicans and Democrats in Congress could dent economic growth in the fourth quarter, but much of the lost output would be recovered when normal operations resume.

The programme helps 40 million low-income Americans afford groceries - but the government shutdown has funds running dry.