America First Policy Institute (AFPI) has expressed concerns over the ongoing government shutdown, highlighting its impact on the U.S. economy and citizens. Jill Homan, Deputy Director of Trade & Economy Policy and Campaign Director at AFPI, said that the shutdown costs the U.S. economy an estimated $15 billion in GDP each week. If it continues for a month, it could result in 43,000 additional unemployed individuals.
Homan emphasized that essential services are being disrupted due to the shutdown. She noted delays in processing veterans' benefits, small business loans, and court cases as examples of critical work not being completed. "Every day the government stays closed means slower services, longer delays, and growing costs for taxpayers," she said.
The statement also criticized Congress members advocating for taxpayer-funded healthcare for undocumented immigrants while American citizens lack guaranteed access to such benefits. Homan argued that this misallocation of funds could increase healthcare costs for Americans.
Furthermore, Homan warned that the shutdown might delay crucial economic data needed by the Federal Reserve to make decisions about interest rate cuts. This is concerning given the current high-interest rate environment affecting Americans.
According to a New York Times poll cited by AFPI, about 65% of Americans believe that the Left should not have shut down the government.
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