How flights are impacted by the government shutdown. And, James Comey's arraignment

"The government shutdown is now on day eight, and no end is in sight as Democrats continue to advocate for extending Affordable Care Act subsidies. Republicans have not wavered, saying that they could discuss the subsidies after the government reopens. In addition, President Trump has floated the possibility that some of the roughly 600,000 furloughed federal workers could be denied back pay once the government reopens, despite a 2019 law intended to ensure federal employees are compensated after a shutdown."

"Democrats and the GOP seem to be engaged in a game of chicken, NPR's Domenico Montanaro tells Up First. The administration believes it can withstand what's happening politically and place blame on Democrats, he adds. The president has given the impression that congressional leaders have been in discussions, but there is no indication that's happening currently. A few who caucus with Democrats have been voting with Republicans to reopen the government, but Democrats are standing united."

The government shutdown entered its eighth day as Democrats press to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies while Republicans refuse to consider that until the government reopens. President Trump floated denying back pay to some of roughly 600,000 furloughed federal workers despite a 2019 law intended to ensure compensation after a shutdown. The parties appear locked in a political standoff, with a few who caucus with Democrats voting to reopen but most Democrats remaining united. The Federal Aviation Administration reports air traffic controller staffing shortages worsened by the shutdown, forcing limits on planes in airspace and causing delays.

Read at www.npr.org