The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), representing the largest segment of U.S. federal workers, has issued an urgent plea to Congress to pass a short-term funding bill to end the ongoing government shutdown. The shutdown, now in its 27th day, has left hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay, forcing many to seek assistance from food banks and other charitable organizations. AFGE National President Everett Kelley emphasized the need for a clean continuing resolution to reopen the government without further delay, ensuring that all federal workers receive full back pay. The impasse stems from a disagreement between Democrats and Republicans over extending subsidies for Affordable Care Act health insurance plans, which millions of Americans rely on. Approximately 670,000 federal employees are currently furloughed, while 730,000 are working without pay, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. The financial strain on these workers has been severe, with many missing their first paychecks last Friday. Despite a 2019 law signed by former President Donald Trump guaranteeing back pay for federal employees during shutdowns, concerns have been raised that this may not be enforced this time. The AFGE has called for immediate action to address the crisis, highlighting the broader implications for cost of living and the appropriations process. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has sought alternative funding sources, including a $130 million donation from an unnamed benefactor to pay U.S. troops during the shutdown. Democrats have criticized the administration for not utilizing reserve funds to support programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which aids millions of low-income families. The prolonged shutdown has sparked widespread condemnation, with lawmakers describing it as a cruel and unlawful act by the Trump administration.