Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently raised concerns about the potential missed paychecks for military personnel if the government shutdown continues. He emphasized that by November 15, troops may not receive their pay, despite previous assurances from the Trump administration. “Our service members risk their lives, and they shouldn’t have to worry about pay,” he said on “Face the Nation.”
Earlier, President Trump had instructed the Pentagon to use leftover research funds to cover military salaries, identifying around $8 billion from the prior fiscal year. However, Bessent warned that this is merely a temporary solution. He indicated that if the shutdown does not resolve, service members may continue to face pay delays.
Bessent criticized Democratic leaders in Congress, claiming they are prioritizing political battles over the needs of the American people. The government funding stalemate stems from ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans. Democrats want to extend health insurance tax credits, while Republicans insist on discussing health care only after the government reopens.
Despite calls for negotiation, Bessent expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of meetings between the president and congressional leaders. “This standoff is concerning,” he stated.
In a similar vein, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the urgent need to reopen the government, advocating for bipartisan discussions. He stressed, “We need action, not just promises.”
A Pew Research Center survey revealed that 75% of Americans believe a government shutdown negatively impacts the economy. This public sentiment underscores the urgency for lawmakers to find common ground.
Experts point out that a prolonged shutdown not only affects federal employees and military personnel but can also ripple through the economy, impacting everything from small businesses to public services. It’s a situation that demands immediate attention from all sides.
With mounting pressure from the public and experts alike, it remains to be seen how Congress will navigate this impasse and prioritize the needs of the nation.
Source link



















