As the government shutdown continues, active-duty U.S. service members are now at risk of missing their next paycheck—a first in American history. Since the shutdown began on October 1, approximately 1.3 million active-duty personnel have continued reporting for duty without guaranteed pay. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have repeatedly blocked a clean funding bill that would reopen the government and ensure military pay, prompting Republican leaders to label the crisis the “Schumer Shutdown.”

Speaker Mike Johnson warned that unless Democrats act by October 15, troops living paycheck to paycheck will miss a full pay cycle. Senate Majority Whip John Thune called the situation “beyond the pale,” criticizing Democrats for allowing it to escalate. Johnson emphasized that 700,000 federal workers are already receiving only partial pay, with military families next in line to feel the impact.

Meanwhile, military charities are overwhelmed by emergency aid requests. Army Emergency Relief has already approved over $7 million in payments to support soldiers, and the Air Force’s charity is preparing to distribute millions more. With fewer than one in three military families having at least $3,000 in savings, many are bracing for financial hardship.

While Democrats argue that Republicans aren’t serious about funding the government, nearly all House Democrats recently opposed a stopgap bill that would have averted the crisis. Hakeem Jeffries claims Democrats are open to negotiations but insist any funding deal must include broader policy priorities like healthcare and tax credits.

Republicans contend the shutdown could end quickly if just five Senate Democrats supported the bipartisan funding measure. With military pay hanging in the balance and public pressure building, both parties face growing urgency to reach a resolution before the October 15 deadline.