A number of federal workers affected by the US government shutdown have gathered in the capital Washington DC to voice their frustration.

"I actually have two kids in college, out of state tuition. It’s going to be a significant financial hardship. I’m talking about possibly getting an emergency loan from the Credit Union."

"You know, it’s not easy, you know. I have a lot of other skills, retail, I could wait on table, but am I going to really get a job like that at this point in my life. I don’t think so. But I mean, it’s just very, very stressful not knowing when this is going to come to an end."

"I wanted to make sure that my claim was in, in line, and you know, if this drags out, that there might be a check coming that I can pay my rent."