White House Adviser Warns Shutdown Could Trigger Negative US Q4 Growth
Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, warned that the prolonged federal shutdown may push US economic growth into negative territory in Q4. Travel disruptions caused by air traffic controller shortages could significantly impact Thanksgiving-related economic activity.
Over 2,200 flights were canceled on Sunday as staffing shortages plague air traffic control. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy predicts air travel will slow to a 'trickle' during the critical holiday period.
The 40-day shutdown has created operational challenges across federal agencies, with air traffic controllers joining other furloughed workers. The timing couldn't be worse - Thanksgiving typically represents one of the busiest economic periods of the year.
