Federal workers question whether the longest government shutdown was worth their sacrifice
November 13, 2025
Federal workers are expressing relief and frustration as the longest government shutdown has come to an end. Social Security claims specialist Jessica Sweet cut back on essentials and racked up credit card debt to get by. The shutdown began on Oct. 1 after Democrats rejected a funding fix, demanding health insurance subsidies. It ended when some Democratic-aligned senators agreed to a deal without the subsidies. The shutdown affected more than 1 million federal employees, with many working without pay. The deal ensures back pay and reverses dismissals. Workers say they felt like political pawns and worry this shutdown might not be the last.