Chronicle poll results: Government shutdown

We asked our readers if they've been directly affected by the government shutdown. Here's what they said.

Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: “Have you been directly affected by the shutdown of the federal government?” Of the 208 people who responded, 78% said no and 22% said yes. Comments were submitted by 38 people. A few follow.

Everyone has been affected, especially those in most need. It’s not good for me and my family, but it’s tragic for those who are desperate to hold it together.

The airports in some areas are not great. The delays and cancellations are very difficult for those of us that have to fly frequently. Air traffic controllers cannot work for free and the American people cannot fly safely without enough of them.

I am an environmental consultant to several federal departments and agencies. I am still working but most of my government contacts are not. Projects are slowing down and new contract awards are in limbo. There is no immediate threat to public health and the environment now, but things are not getting done.

It is very unfair that the legislature and all politicians continue to be paid during the shutdown. The air traffic controllers should be considered as essential workers and be paid to keep all safe.

My husband works for the Navy and is essential. He’s working without pay.

Salaries for all of the congresspersons should also be halted during the shutdown.

I’m only affected because I donated more money and food to the food banks.

I’m a retired federal employee. Boy, am I glad I left before things got to this stage!

My son needs to travel from his home in British Columbia to Los Angeles for some very important business meetings. Unfortunately, the shutdown is negatively affecting air travel. We also have a family reunion arranged for Thanksgiving in New York City. Again, I worry that the shutdown will cancel that. I know that others are worse off than I am, but I am still affected by this government snafu.

I volunteer at the Squirrel Hill Pantry and we have been swamped by new demand. The need seems to be enormous and the food is running low. We almost ran out of meat today, serving 56 households. If the members of government aren’t working, they shouldn’t be paid.

My roommate, whom I care for as she is disabled, will have her food stamps cut, most likely. That will create a hardship for me, as I will spend money on her food. It hasn’t happened yet, so I haven’t been affected yet.

Though I have not been directly affected, I am very concerned about those who are. Interfering with people’s jobs, their source of food, their health insurance, and so many other things is pure evil.

My daughter is a Senate employee and has not been paid in over a month so we’re loaning her money until she is (hopefully) made whole. She has continued to work full time.

My brother is a federal contractor. He is currently furloughed. Federal contractors do not receive back pay, unlike federal employees. He’s receiving unemployment right now. He has numerous health concerns and can’t be without work or health insurance. This shut down has been extremely difficult for him. PJC