Senate debates paying essential workers as shutdown leaves families turning to food banks

With the government shutdown stretching on, the Senate could vote this week on a bill to pay essential federal employees.

(CNN)- With the government shutdown stretching on, the Senate could vote this week on a bill to pay essential federal employees — those still working without pay.

“They are trying to make their mortgage payments. They’re trying to put food on the table,” said Sen. Joni Ernst (R–Iowa).

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Ron Johnson (R–Wisconsin), would temporarily fund paychecks for essential staff. But it’s unclear whether it has enough support to pass. Some Republicans say it would ease pressure on Congress to reach a broader agreement.

“The military should be getting paid, and law enforcement should be getting paid,” argued Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R–Alabama). “Everybody else — shut it off.”

Democrats, meanwhile, are pushing to pay all federal workers, not just those deemed essential by the Trump administration. “That bill unfortunately gives a lot of latitude to the president to pick and choose,” said Sen. Peter Welch (D–Vermont). Sen. Tim Kaine (D–Virginia) added that Democrats will introduce a counter-proposal offering “an even-handed approach.”

As lawmakers debate, the reality for many families is growing dire. In the D.C. area, hundreds of unpaid federal employees lined up for food distribution events this week. Some waited for more than two hours.

“Can’t believe I’m here, you know, because you always thought that getting a government job — or a federal job — that that’s security,” said Rolanda Williams, a federal employee now relying on a food bank.

Another worker, Summer Kerksick, said her bills haven’t stopped just because her paycheck has. “Rent, car note, car insurance, student loans — those are not stopping,” she said.