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As the U.S. government shutdown drags into its third week, the economic toll is becoming increasingly severe. According to estimates from the White House Council of Economic Advisers, the shutdown is costing the economy approximately $15 billion per week, with other independent analysts placing the figure between $7 billion and $16 billion. These losses stem from halted federal services, delayed paychecks for government workers, and disruptions to key sectors like transportation, healthcare, and data reporting.
The ripple effects are being felt across the country. Small businesses that rely on federal contracts are facing cash flow crises, while major airlines are canceling flights due to staffing shortages among air traffic controllers and TSA agents. Economists warn that even if the shutdown ends soon, the damage may not be fully reversible, especially for sectors that depend on consistent federal oversight and funding.
Public sentiment is also shifting. A recent CBS News poll found that 54% of Americans are “very concerned” about the shutdown’s economic impact, with many expressing frustration over political gridlock in Washington. Financial markets have shown signs of volatility, and consumer confidence is beginning to waver as uncertainty looms over federal spending and debt ceiling negotiations.
In the long term, experts caution that repeated shutdowns could erode trust in government institutions and weaken the U.S. economy’s resilience. For now, the nation watches as lawmakers struggle to reach a compromise—while billions continue to slip away each week.