As the potential government shutdown looms, federal employees express mixed feelings about the situation. Some view the shutdown as an opportunity to push back against perceived political injustices, while unions urge leaders to take a firm stance against compromises that may undermine public services. Veteran groups warn Congress against the dangers of political brinkmanship, emphasizing the importance of funding for military readiness. Despite the threat of layoffs and working without pay, many federal workers maintain that they ‘are not political pawns’ and are prepared to endure hardship for their beliefs. Calls for bipartisan negotiations continue, with various unions advocating for protecting critical public services and ensuring that members are not sidelined in the budget debates.