ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The D.C. metro area, already reeling from previous federal workforce disruptions, has entered another government shutdown, prompting dire warnings from regional economists.

Experts caution that this budget impasse is far more dangerous than previous shutdowns, potentially triggering a regional recession as it compounds recent job losses and paralyzes the local economy.

Apprehension on the streets

In Old Town Alexandria, the crisp October air was met with apprehension and frustration among residents.

Hunt Burke, an Alexandria resident, questioned the political gridlock. "Not good. I mean, why did we wait till last night to decide that we couldn't come to a decision?"

Federal worker Jeff Resko summed up the mixed emotions of those directly impacted. "I'm a federal work

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