Washington, D.C. — As President Donald Trump continues a headline-grabbing tour across Asia, the political reality back home is growing increasingly painful. The federal government shutdown — now stretching into its 29th day — is heightening economic uncertainty, threatening food assistance programs, squeezing working families, and straining essential aviation services.
Trump Secures Progress With South Korea, Eyes China Talks
During a bilateral meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on the sidelines of the APEC summit, both nations finalized key details of a long-negotiated trade deal. Seoul will gradually commit $200 billion in cash investments and an additional $150 billion through shipbuilding cooperation, easing foreign-exchange concerns. Automobile tariffs on Korean exports are expected to fall to 15%, aligning with Japanese competitors.
Trump is now set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in a closely watched session. Analysts say both sides aim to establish a framework to manage economic rivalry as trade tensions cool — at least on paper.
Shutdown Fallout: SNAP Benefits in Jeopardy
Millions of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may lose benefits beginning November 1. The Department of Agriculture says it cannot cover the estimated $8 billion needed for November’s payments due to the funding stalemate. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Republican leadership to allow a vote on a bipartisan bill guaranteeing uninterrupted SNAP funding. “There’s a bill on the floor that would pass immediately,” Schumer said. “Put it up for a vote.”
The Congressional Budget Office warns that prolonged delays would shave up to two percentage points off quarterly GDP growth, with an estimated economic loss ranging between $7 and $14 billion.
Aviation Workforce on Edge
Air traffic controllers — deemed essential workers — continue reporting for duty without pay. Newark Liberty International Airport, among others, is facing staffing shortages, prompting delays and safety concerns. “This is a job where you have to perform perfectly,” said Jack Criss, a 16-year veteran air traffic controller and single father, who has taken temporary leave to manage stress and work gig jobs to support his daughter.
Since the shutdown began, the Federal Aviation Administration has logged at least 283 staffing issues nationwide.
States Scramble as Federal Aid Wavers
With Washington deadlocked, states including Virginia and South Carolina are attempting to cushion the blow by boosting emergency food programs. However, USDA officials say federal reimbursement won’t be guaranteed. Meanwhile, 25 Democratic-led states plus Washington, D.C. have filed lawsuits aimed at blocking pending food assistance cuts.
House Staff Miss Paychecks
Capitol Hill tensions intensified Wednesday as House staffers received notice that October 31 paychecks would not be issued without congressional action. Senate staff will likely face the same fate if the shutdown continues.
Immigration Work Permits Set to Lapse
Adding to nationwide anxiety, the administration will end automatic work-permit extensions for immigrants facing renewal delays — a move that could leave thousands suddenly unemployed while applications are processed.
Diplomacy, Gold Crowns, and Politics Abroad
South Korea welcomed Trump with elaborate ceremony — including a replica golden crown and gold-themed desserts symbolizing prosperity. Trump also received the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country’s highest honor. Despite the warmth, Trump pointedly avoided interactions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney amid escalating tariff disputes.
2028 Politics Surface Early
Back home, speculation over a 2028 presidential ticket surfaced as Trump publicly floated a hypothetical Rubio-Vance pairing. Vice President JD Vance brushed aside the notion, calling it “premature,” saying his focus is on supporting the administration.
No End in Sight
Republicans have now failed 13 times to advance a funding bill to reopen the government, while Democrats continue to demand protections for Affordable Care Act subsidies. Senate GOP leaders remain opposed to piecemeal legislation. Airports are straining, grocery budgets are tightening, and essential public servants are working without pay. The longer the shutdown drags on, economists warn, the harder it becomes to reverse the damage.
For millions of Americans, November could be a turning point — and patience is running out