国际观察丨美联邦政府“停摆”近纪录 民众“伤不起”

Core Points - The U.S. federal government shutdown has reached its 34th day, nearing the record of 35 days set in late 2018 to early 2019, causing significant disruptions in various sectors, particularly aviation, food assistance, and healthcare [1] - The ongoing political deadlock between the Republican and Democratic parties is exacerbating the situation, with both sides using the shutdown to further their political agendas without signs of compromise [1][9] Aviation Industry - Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 airport security personnel are working without pay, leading to staffing shortages and increased flight delays across the country [2][3] - Nearly half of the major air traffic control facilities in the U.S. are experiencing personnel shortages, with 90% of air traffic controllers in the New York area absent from work [3] - On November 2, nearly 4,300 flights were delayed and over 550 flights were canceled, indicating a severe impact on air travel [3] Food Assistance and Healthcare - The federal food assistance program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), ceased issuing benefits on November 1, affecting 42 million Americans, many of whom live below the poverty line [6] - The new enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act began on November 1, with 24 million participants expected, but rising premiums are anticipated due to the lack of agreement on government subsidies [8] - The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the shutdown could reduce the U.S. GDP growth rate by 1-2 percentage points in Q4, translating to potential economic losses of $7 billion to $14 billion depending on the duration of the shutdown [8] Political Dynamics - The shutdown is primarily driven by a stalemate over healthcare spending, with both parties unwilling to compromise, and each using the situation to advance their political goals [9][10] - The Republican party is seen as leveraging the shutdown to push for government downsizing, while the Democratic party aims to maintain support among low-income voters by advocating for food assistance [10]