The longest-ever US government shutdown severely impacted federal workers and public services, with about 776 air traffic controllers at busy airports receiving $10,000 bonuses for perfect attendance without pay. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford praised the workers, though unions criticized that bonuses excluded many who also worked without pay. The shutdown caused widespread economic and social consequences, affecting millions of federal workers, disabled Americans, and infrastructure projects while political tensions remain high amid upcoming funding debates.