Budget crisis in the USA

The shutdown costs 144 billion a week

The American government shutdown is in its 36th day and is thus officially the longest ever. The Hill writes. It seems that both parties have stuck to their respective policies and the newspaper calls it a "perfect storm" of ideology, risk politics and deep distrust that has made it difficult for Congress to agree.

According to sources, there are several reasons why it is unusually difficult for Democrats and Republicans to agree, but a driving factor may be President Trump's decision to stand on the sidelines. The Hill calls the move both unique and strategic.

The shutdown has also been costly, writes Bloomberg. According to calculations that the news agency has seen, it costs between 10 and 30 billion dollars a week, with most analysts landing around a figure of 15 billion dollars, equivalent to almost 144 billion kronor.

Usually, shutdowns rarely cause lasting damage after the budget issue is resolved. But this time that could change, partly because retroactive wage payments may not be made and food stamps may be stopped.

US authorities closed for 36 days – a new record

The US government has now been shut down for 36 days. That is the longest period ever, Reuters and AFP report.

Donald Trump thus breaks his previous record of 35 days achieved during his first term. The shutdown means that 1.4 million civil servants, ranging from air traffic controllers to park rangers, are still laid off or working without pay.

The background to the shutdown is that Republicans and Democrats have not been able to agree on a temporary budget.