A government shutdown occurs if federal agencies run out of money to finance their operations. If that happens, the impacts on everyday Americans will vary widely based on occupation, region, and socioeconomic status. During a shutdown, federal agencies and operations deemed essential – including national security, law enforcement, Border Patrol, outbreak monitoring, and emergency response – would remain fully open. Federal employees in “essential” positions – such as service members and air traffic controllers – would work without pay until the shutdown ends. The stakes are even higher this time around given that the Trump administration is planning to make some of the furloughs permanent if the government shuts down.