Lawmakers, Including Smucker, Request Pay Withheld During Shutdown

In response to the ongoing government shutdown, several lawmakers have opted to have their pay withheld until the government reopens. Among them is Republican Representative Lloyd Smucker, who announced his decision on Wednesday (October 1). He joins other federal lawmakers such as Republican Senator Ted Cruz, Democratic Senator Andy Kim, and Republican Representative Elise Stefanik in refusing their paychecks during this period.

The government shutdown, which has halted various federal operations, is expected to continue at least until Friday (October 3) as senators have left Washington, D.C., to observe the Jewish holiday Yom Kippur. The decision by these lawmakers to withhold their pay highlights a gesture of solidarity with federal workers who are not receiving their salaries during the shutdown.

The shutdown has sparked discussions and concerns over its impact on government services and employees. The actions of Smucker and his colleagues aim to draw attention to the urgency of resolving the budgetary impasse. As the shutdown persists, the focus remains on negotiations to reopen the government and resume normal operations.