The government shutdown is now the longest - and likely the most damaging in US history

The government shutdown that began on October 1 is now the longest in US history. Economists say it has likely inflicted the most economic damage. Eric Lee/Getty Images New York —

The ongoing government shutdown isn’t just the longest in American history. It’s likely the most damaging, too.

Historically, the economic damage from shutdowns is fleeting, quickly reversing when the government reopens. However, the 36-day lapse in funding that began on October 1 is already dealing a significant – albeit temporary – blow to the world’s largest economy.

Millions of Americans are not getting food stamp benefits needed to feed their families. Roughly 1.4 million federal employees haven’t been paid – even though many are still working. And investors and policymakers are in the dark ab