As the government shutdown continues, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warns that the U.S. military may not be able to receive their pay by November 15 if the situation persists. Congress is under increasing pressure to address military compensation, particularly as funds from a $8 billion emergency Pentagon fund allocated by former President Trump to ensure troops are paid begin to dwindle. Concerns abound regarding the legality of Trump’s strategies to redirect funds for military pay without congressional approval, with many lawmakers expressing frustration over his apparent power grab. Experts caution that such moves set a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining the traditional power of the purse held by Congress. As the shutdown nears its record duration, the impending pay deadline for military members raises urgent questions about the future of military compensation and the implications of executive actions taken during this crisis.