In this video, I discuss how the government shutdown will — and won’t — impact the intelligence agencies.
The work of intel collection, analysis, and dissemination has always been regarded as essential, so those employees are not likely to be furloughed.
But Glenn Gerstell, the former general counsel of the NSA, tells me, “There is still a massive effect on individuals. People are either furloughed or are told to work without pay.” He said it is demoralizing and can disrupt work patterns that include conferences and contracts for essential supplies.
The question is… how long will this shutdown last? And with essential employees not receiving pay until Congress steps in, how long will they able to hold out?
The last shutdown was in 2018 for 35 days, the longest in 40 years. More in the video.
