ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - As the federal government shut down early Wednesday morning, Georgia lawmakers and leaders were swift in their response.

Jason Esteves and Michael Thurmond — who are both running as Democrats for Georgia governor in 2026 — both slammed the Trump administration and Republicans for the shutdown.

“This reckless shutdown now threatens our critical services and the nearly 111,000 federal employees in Georgia, who have already faced funding cuts, mass firings, and senseless gun violence this year,” Esteves said.

Said Thurmond: “While families are already struggling to keep up with the soaring cost of living, Washington Republicans are forcing cuts to healthcare for millions and driving up premiums. Now, because of their reckless actions, workers will be fur

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