As the federal shutdown enters its fourth week, pressure mounts on Senate Democrats to end the impasse that’s left 800,000 workers unpaid and social programs like SNAP and WIC at risk. Democrats seek temporary funding to protect vulnerable Americans while preserving leverage in budget talks. Polls now show more voters blaming them as Republicans accuse obstruction. Federal workers’ frustration grows amid missed paychecks, and economists warn of economic fallout. Both parties face mounting public anger and risks to the economy as the standoff drags on.