Mounting Strain as Shutdown Threatens Pay, SNAP | JQJO

Pressure is intensifying to end the nation’s second-longest shutdown as it enters a fourth week, with airport delays mounting, 1.3 million service members at risk of missing Friday’s pay, and SNAP benefits for 42 million poised to lapse after the administration refused to tap contingency funds. The AFGE union urged a clean funding bill, while Democrats demand commitments on preventing mass firings and help with soaring ACA premiums. The House passed a short-term bill, but the Senate lacks votes. With Trump abroad and leaders trading blame, a quick deal looks unlikely.