The partial government shutdown in the US is now the longest in the country's history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are in their fourth week of working without pay. But the effects are beginning to be felt by an increasing number of Americans. US correspondent Kate Fisher looks at how they're reacting and who they're blaming.
IN: Visitors to
OUT: SOC
DUR: 2'04"
SCRIPT:
<<Zoo b'roll>>
Visitors to Washington's National Zoo are having to make do with a plastic panda, bronze lion and a zebra crossing.
<<closed government buildings>>
Like thousands of other government-run locations, it's closed while lawmakers and the president continue a stalemate over funding for a border wall.
<<zoo workers>>
Tough for the employees working without pay- tough for the local businesses who rely on them being open.
<<Yael set-ups - coating confectionery>>
For small business owners like Yael Krigman, there is no sugar-coating the effects. She runs an independent bakery close to the zoo.
SOT: Yael Krigman, Owner, Baked by Yael
"for us to be across from the National Zoo and have the gates closed and be losing so many customers every single day is having a huge impact on us."
<<Houston airport closed security>>
Another place where the impact is evident is at the airport. In Texas, Houston's George Bush international airport has closed the security checkpoint to one of its terminals because it doesn't have enough staff.
VOX
"I stand behind president Trump and his decision to keep the government shut down until congress can come to a decision about how to move forward with things."
VOX
"I guess i just blame you know, they can't come to a decision, therefore we're kinda held hostage here."
<<man throwing snowball towards white house>>
In America's capital, home to the country's largest share of federal workers, some want to throw things at the White House. Others plan to show their frustration at the ballot box next year.
VOX
"We hope this is not the norm for the American government and our political leaders. And we're looking forward to the 2020 elections so that things might change"
VOX
We all sort of saw it coming i think . I think it's unethical to put people in that position, It's a way of getting what you want but I don't think it's the right approach."
As the stand-off between the president and the Democrats continues, negotiations over reopening the government remain as frozen as the ground in Washington. And the longer this frostiness goes on, the more Americans will feel its bite. Kate Fisher, Washington.