Furloughed federal workers have rallied on the grounds of the US Capitol, demanding action from Congress. Chanting "make them vote," the crowd gathered on the grass in front of the House side. Without an income, some of the workers described their situation as "devastating".
"This is devastating to both of us. Our son is four years old. We had to take him out of day care immediately, because we knew that that would not be an expense that we can meet this month, because we don’t know how long this furlough could go." Marcelo Del Canto, Furloughed Federal Worker said.
"They should give up their paychecks. You know, they should reserve the right to get a paycheck, to know what it feels like to not have the money to provide for your family, to be able to put food on the table, to be able to put gas in your car." Natasha Rozier, Furloughed Federal Worker, Furloughed Federal Worker said.
"I’m very angry and disgusted right now that our family is being held hostage by their political whims." Nicola Netto-White, Furloughed Federal Worker said.