WASHINGTON (AP) — The government shutdown is exacting a heavy toll on the nation’s military families, leaving them in a precarious situation, unsure from week to week about their paychecks. Alicia Blevins, a Marine spouse, has recently turned to therapy to cope with the relentless uncertainty. “I don’t feel like I have the tools to deal with this,” said Blevins, 33, from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. “I can’t burden my husband, who is already managing stress with his duties.”
Although measures have been taken by the Trump administration to ensure military personnel receive pay on time, the anxiety surrounding this process has left many families anxious. Just days before an expected paycheck on October 15, President Trump instructed the Pentagon to utilize available funds for troop salaries.
With discussions in Washington about troop pay leading to frustration among families of active-duty service members, emotions are running high. “You have to be thought of to be used as a pawn,” comments Jennifer Bittner, whose husband is an Army officer. Bittner explained the increased stress regarding their child’s health care costs and their family’s financial responsibilities, as delays in paychecks can hinder timely bill payments.
The implications of the government shutdown extend to reservists as well; many weekend drills have been cancelled, leading to a significant loss of income. Advocacy organizations have been urging Congress to take action to protect the financial well-being of these military families amid growing concerns. In response, programs have been set up to provide assistance in obtaining food and essential supplies for struggling families.
Blevins adds, “Every day we check the news. And I see nothing but blame on Facebook: ‘It’s the Democrats’ fault. It’s the Republicans’ fault.’ I wish we could move past the blame and find a solution.”
