Government shutdown enters week four as small businesses feel the strain

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The federal government shutdown has entered its fourth week, with no sign of a deal in sight.

As political leaders continue to trade blame, small businesses across the country — including in Virginia — are struggling to stay afloat.

Republicans accuse Democrats of playing politics with people’s livelihoods, while Democrats argue that President Donald Trump is refusing to engage in meaningful negotiations.

U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler said nearly 7,000 small businesses nationwide have been denied about $4 billion in capital due to the shutdown. In Virginia alone, the impact totals roughly $17 million each week.

“Businesses can’t hire, expand, invest, or pay bills,” Loeffler said.

She added that Democrats should work quickly to reopen the government before more federal workers are hurt, noting that the president has introduced “innovative ideas” on issues like drug pricing that cannot move forward until the shutdown ends.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) pushed back, saying Democrats have remained at the table, ready to negotiate.

“We asked for a meeting with the president. He refused until the day before the deadline,” Kaine said. “As soon as it was over, he posted AI-generated videos mocking Democratic leaders. He’s not serious.”

Kaine added that while Senate Democrats have continued working, the House has taken an extended break.

If the shutdown extends past next Wednesday, it will become the longest in U.S. history.