Government Shutdown Day 13: Betting Markets Now Favor Longest Shutdown in History
As the partial government shutdown enters its thirteenth day, research indicates that betting markets are now favoring this becoming the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The political stalemate shows no signs of resolution as both parties remain entrenched in their positions over border security funding.
Meanwhile, the administration has maintained certain priority operations despite the funding lapse. According to industry reports, construction continues on a White House ballroom project that officials claim isn’t dependent on congressional appropriations. An unnamed administration official confirmed the project’s continuation while other government functions face suspension.
The selective preservation of certain functions extends to critical enforcement agencies. Data shows that offices handling tariff collection and immigration enforcement will maintain higher staffing levels compared to previous shutdown scenarios. This strategic approach reflects the administration’s focus on maintaining operations it considers essential to national security and economic interests.
The economic impact continues to ripple across sectors, with industry data showing retailers scaling back holiday hiring plans amid the uncertainty. Consumer confidence has dipped as nearly 800,000 federal workers face missed paychecks, creating potential headwinds for the crucial holiday shopping season.
Transportation and service industries are also feeling the effects. Analysis reveals that rideshare and shuttle services are adapting their operations using predictive technology to accommodate changing commuting patterns as federal workers seek alternative transportation options during the funding lapse.
The shutdown’s duration now threatens to surpass the 21-day record set in 1995-1996, with no bipartisan breakthrough in sight. Both sides appear prepared for an extended standoff, leaving federal employees and government contractors in limbo as essential services operate with skeleton crews and non-essential functions remain shuttered.
