When LaShanda Palmer started her car on Monday, Oct. 27, she noticed her inspection sticker had expired and the maintenance light signaled it was time for an oil change. Normally, she’d handle those tasks right away — but right now, she simply can’t afford to.
Palmer, 50, has worked for the Transportation Security Administration for 23 years, yet she isn’t receiving a paycheck because of the federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1.
“I have a car note, I have insurance, I have a grandchild that I have guardianship over who’s 6,” she says. Two of her five children also live with her. “It is extremely hard.”…