The government shutdown reached a critical juncture as air traffic controllers missed their first full paycheck, raising concerns about potential flight disruptions across the country on what is typically one of the busiest travel days.

After 28 days of the shutdown, the impact may finally reach Americans who haven't felt its effects directly. While federal workers and those relying on government programs like SNAP food assistance have been struggling, today marks a potential turning point as air traffic controllers face financial pressure that could lead to widespread flight delays and cancellations.

"It is so not business as usual. We're pretending that everything is okay," Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a moderate Republican from Alaska, said yesterday.

"We're pretending that people are not be

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