Shutdown fallout grounds flights and delays aid as Washington gridlock deepens

 The stalemate in Washington is bringing new gridlock — this time, in the skies.

(NBC)-  The stalemate in Washington is bringing new gridlock — this time, in the skies. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a sweeping reduction in air travel, with a 10% cut in flights at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports starting Friday. The move comes as the government shutdown stretches on, forcing air traffic controllers and TSA officers to work without pay.

“We are working with the airlines. They’re going to work with passengers,” Duffy said. “But in the end, our sole role is to make sure that we keep this airspace as safe as possible.”

The staffing shortages have already led to widespread sick calls as federal employees take on side jobs to make ends meet. Travelers are bracing for the fallout. At the same time, the shutdown’s impact is spreading beyond airports. Delays and cuts in federal food assistance are leaving millions uncertain about how to feed their families. On Capitol Hill, frustration is mounting as both sides dig in. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged the president to meet with Democratic leadership to strike a deal.

“Leader Jeffries and I this morning demanded that Donald Trump sit down and meet with us,” Schumer said.

President Trump admitted the shutdown may have hurt Republicans in this week’s elections.

“The shutdown was a big factor, negative for the Republicans,” he told reporters.

Democrats remain firm on tying any funding deal to healthcare provisions, while bipartisan talks among rank-and-file lawmakers are beginning to pick up momentum. For millions of Americans — from travelers to families relying on aid — that way forward can’t come soon enough.