Title: Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Close Amid Shutdown

The ongoing government shutdown is affecting visitors in Washington, D.C., as Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo have closed due to a lack of federal funding. This shutdown has also led to the closure of Smithsonian research centers across the nation. The Smithsonian Institution manages 21 museums, 14 education and research centers, and the National Zoo, most of which are free to the public, making them popular attractions for tourists and families.

On Monday, some families were caught off guard by the closures. They were seen attempting to enter the National Museum of Natural History, unaware that it was closed. "I feel sorry for the people that made a vacation to come here. I mean that's the ones like you gotta be disappointed," said Danny Lee, a visitor in the nation’s capital.

As the shutdown nears the two-week mark, discussions continue in Congress regarding the reopening of the government. Democrats are advocating for any bill to include enhanced tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, which they argue are necessary to keep health insurance premiums from rising significantly. Meanwhile, Republicans express a willingness to negotiate health care policy but maintain that the government must reopen before any discussions can take place.

The impact of the shutdown is being felt not only by tourists but also by federal employees and various sectors reliant on government operations. The situation remains fluid as lawmakers work to resolve the impasse and restore funding to affected institutions.