Barriers with construction sign block the U.S. Capitol, hinting at a governmental shutdown under a cloudy sky.

Government Shutdown 2025: The Race to Save Troops and Their Families

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ByArmyConnect

News of Another Government Shutdown Takes Its Toll on Soldiers, Families, Communities, and Military Readiness

BLUF

Everyone talks a good game, and yet our country is on the cusp of self-sabotage, incapacitating our military readiness and reducing our family morale through a lack of pay and services. Oddly enough, most Senators, Representatives, and Delegates receive an annual salary of $174,000 (Congressional Research Service, 2024). It’s not a bad gig; they are almost like a mini–Battalion Commander. They have a DC office, experienced staff, a travel allowance, good health care, and a considerable annual salary. So why are they so lazy?! The 119th Congress submitted 3,291 pieces of legislation for this fiscal year but could not find the time to execute one of the most basic tasks: pass an annual budget (Civic Impulse, LLC, 2025).

Talk about fraud, waste, and abuse. Where is the Congressional performance plan?

Introduction

In politics, few events create as much tension and uncertainty as a government shutdown. As the clock ticks down to the March 14 deadline, lawmakers face immense pressure to strike a deal that will avert a partial government shutdown. This situation is especially critical for troops and their families who rely on federal support and services. With the potential for significant disruptions to military readiness and essential programs, the stakes are high as Congress grapples with a budget that could either secure resources for the armed forces or leave them in limbo. This article will explore the implications of a possible government shutdown in 2025, examining the congressional deadlock, economic impact, and the effects on military readiness.

What Is the Current Status of Federal Funding and The Deadline for a Budget Deal?

The current federal funding is set to expire on March 14, which is fast approaching. Lawmakers are under pressure to reach a consensus on a budget that could either extend funding or lead to a government shutdown. House Republicans have suggested a six-month budget extension, but the support from Senate Democrats remains uncertain. This looming deadline creates a sense of urgency as both parties seek a resolution.

We’ve written at length about the multiple government shutdowns that we are re-using images. Folks, this is getting a little old.

What are the Current Components of the Federal Budget?

The current components of the federal budget can be categorized into three main areas: mandatory spending, discretionary spending, and interest payments on debtﾠ(Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 2024). Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Chart showing components of federal spending and tax revenue for fiscal year 2024, with percentages for each category.

Mandatory Spending

  • Definition: This spending is required by law and does not require annual appropriations by Congress.
  • Percentage: Approximately 61% of the federal budget.
  • Key Programs:
    • Social Security
    • Medicare
    • Medicaid
    • Veterans’ benefits
    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
    • Federal military and civilian retirement programs
    • Some farm price support programs

Discretionary Spending

  • Definition: This spending is determined through the annual appropriations process and can vary annually.
  • Percentage: Approximately 26% of the federal budget.
  • Key Areas:
    • Defense spending (military)
    • Education
    • Health services
    • Housing assistance
    • Scientific research
    • Other federal programs operated by civilian agencies

Interest Payments on Debt

  • Definition: This is the cost of servicing the national debt, including interest payments on federal borrowing.
  • Percentage: This accounts for the remaining budget after mandatory and discretionary spending.

Summary of Budget Allocation (Estimated as of June 2024):

  • Mandatory Spending: ~61%
  • Discretionary Spending: ~26%
  • Interest Payments on Debt: ~13% (remaining portion)

Understanding these components provides insight into how the federal government allocates its financial resources and prioritizes various programs and obligations.

How Would a Government Shutdown Affect Military Personnel and Their Families?

If a government shutdown occurs, military personnel, including active-duty troops, must continue working without guaranteed paychecks unless legislation is enacted to protect their salaries. This uncertainty strains military families who depend on timely payments for their living expenses. Essential programs that support military families, such as base maintenance and family support services, would also be halted, exacerbating the challenges faced by these families.

  • Delayed Salary Payments: Soldiers may not receive their paychecks on time, causing financial strain for military families.
  • Increased Financial Stress: Service members may have difficulty covering essential expenses like housing, food, and childcare.
  • Morale Issues: Uncertainty about pay can lead to low morale among troops, affecting their mental well-being and job performance.

What Are the Implications for Military Readiness During a Government Shutdown?

A government shutdown can severely impact military readiness. Non-essential programs that contribute to training, maintenance, and operational support would be paused, potentially hindering the military’s ability to respond to threats and maintain its operational capabilities. The absence of funding for critical services could lead to a decline in morale among troops and their families, affecting overall readiness and effectiveness.

  • Training and Exercises Halted: A shutdown can suspend critical training programs and exercises necessary for maintaining operational readiness.
  • Equipment Maintenance Delays: Regular maintenance on military equipment may be postponed, leading to possible failures during operations.
  • Impact on Future Deployments: Delayed training and maintenance can hinder the ability to deploy forces quickly when needed.
  • Reduced Operational Capability: Without necessary funding, the military may postpone crucial operations or missions, potentially jeopardizing national security.
  • Impact on Recruitment and Retention: Uncertainty in pay and benefits can deter potential recruits and lead to higher attrition rates among current personnel.

What Efforts Are Lawmakers Making to Prevent a Government Shutdown?

Lawmakers are actively working to avoid a shutdown by negotiating budget proposals and seeking bipartisan support for funding measures. Representatives like Navy veteran Rep. Jen Kiggans is advocating for the “Pay Our Troops” Act to ensure that military personnel, including Coast Guard members and some Defense Department civilian employees, receive their pay during a funding lapse. These efforts highlight the urgency and importance of supporting military families during uncertain times.

What Is the Potential Economic Impact of a Government Shutdown?

A government shutdown not only affects military personnel but can also have broader economic implications. The halt of federal services can disrupt local economies, particularly in areas with a high concentration of military bases. Additionally, government contracts and service delays can affect businesses that rely on federal funding, leading to job losses and reduced economic activity. Government employees, servicemembers, and families can feel the ripple effects of a shutdown beyond the immediate impacts.

The potential economic impact of a government shutdown can be substantial, particularly concerning soldier pay and military readiness. Here’s a detailed list highlighting these aspects:

Economic Consequences for Local Communities

  • Reduced Spending in Local Economies: Service members and their families may cut back on spending in local businesses near military installations.
  • Job Losses in Support Services: Local businesses that rely on military spending could face layoffs or closures due to decreased patronage.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: Contractors and suppliers who provide goods and services to the military may face financial strain, impacting their businesses and employees.

Defense Contractors

  • Payment Delays: Contractors who supply goods and services to the military may experience late payments, impacting their cash flow.
  • Project Cancellations: Ongoing projects may be put on hold, affecting jobs and stability within the defense contracting industry.
  • Job Losses: Prolonged shutdowns could lead to layoffs in the defense sector as companies adjust to lost revenue.

National Security Risks

  • Operational Vulnerabilities: Reduced military readiness can create gaps in national defense, making the U.S. more susceptible to threats.
  • Global Perceptions: Allies may question U.S. commitment to defense agreements, potentially affecting international relations.

Long-term Economic Effects

  • Increased Costs for Recovery: The longer the shutdown lasts, the more costly it becomes to restore normal operations and readiness levels.
  • Budgetary Implications: Prolonged shutdowns may lead to stricter budget controls and impact future appropriations for defense spending.
  • Budgetary Constraints: Repeated government shutdowns can lead to stricter budget controls in future fiscal years, impacting military funding.
  • Legislative Challenges: Ongoing shutdowns could lead to more significant political divisions, making it harder to pass future defense budgets.

A government shutdown poses serious risks to soldier pay and military readiness and has broader implications for national security and the economy. Ensuring timely and consistent funding for military operations is crucial for maintaining a capable and prepared military force while supporting the well-being of service members and their families.

Conclusion: It’s the Same Thing All Over Again – Our Country’s Military Readiness and Morale are At Stake

The impending government shutdown underscores a critical threat to the United States military and family readiness. As lawmakers struggle to reach an agreement, funding uncertainty directly impacts service members and their loved ones. Delayed paychecks can create financial instability, increasing stress among military families who rely on consistent income to meet basic needs. Furthermore, the potential suspension of essential services and programs designed to support military personnel exacerbates these challenges, undermining their overall morale and well-being. This precarious situation not only jeopardizes the operational readiness of our armed forces but also risks eroding the trust and confidence that service members place in their government to support them. With national security at stake, Congress must prioritize the needs of those who serve, ensuring that military families receive the stability and resources they deserve during these uncertain times.

Congress must take immediate action to address the looming crisis by passing a clean, Continuing Resolution to ensure uninterrupted funding for our military and their families. The current performance of lawmakers, characterized by inaction and gridlock, is nothing short of embarrassing for a nation that prides itself on supporting those who serve. It is time for elected officials to set aside partisan differences and prioritize the well-being of military personnel and their families. By demonstrating a commitment to responsible governance, Congress can restore faith in its ability to effectively manage the nation’s budget and safeguard the readiness of our armed forces.

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