For the first time in U.S. history, active-duty service members may miss a paycheck as the government shutdown enters its second week. About 1.3 million troops continue reporting for duty, but the Pentagon warns paychecks scheduled for next week will not be issued unless Congress restores funding.
The shutdown stems from a deadlock in Congress: Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have rejected a House-passed stopgap funding bill, demanding additional spending measures, while Republicans blame Democrats for prolonging the impasse.
House Speaker Mike Johnson warned, “Starting next week, American service members, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck, will miss a full paycheck.” Senate Minority Whip John Thune called the potential lapse “beyond the pale” and “unacceptable.”
President Trump is reportedly reviewing emergency measures to ensure troops are paid despite the funding gap. Meanwhile, military families are facing financial strain, with charitable organizations like Blue Star Families and Army Emergency Relief reporting record demand for assistance.
