Last paychecks and new side hustles: Government workers’ TikToks show shutdown life

In the wake of the recent government shutdown, federal employees are finding a unique outlet on TikTok to share their experiences. "Good morning, my fellow federal furloughed employees!" has become a common opening line in a series of videos produced by those affected by the shutdown, which has now lasted over two weeks. A significant number of federal workers, both furloughed and those required to continue working without pay, are using the platform to educate the public about their challenges. Many are hoping to generate some additional income while they wait indefinitely for their next paycheck. The hashtag #federalemployees has gained traction, showcasing nearly 10,000 posts, including insights from employment lawyers and others aiming to reach a wider audience. Aubrey, a public health employee, expressed her motivation for posting videos, stating, "I really want people to see that federal workers are real people and their lives are being impacted. I felt like no one was hearing us or seeing us." Her videos cover topics from the distinction between essential and non-essential workers to the implications of the shutdown for non-government employees. Despite her hopes for her short-term assignment to evolve into a permanent position, Aubrey's optimism has waned due to significant cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency earlier this year. Although TikTok hasn't yet provided her with a viable source of income, she sees it as a potential side hustle to help offset her lost wages. Ashton, an air traffic controller, has also turned to TikTok, gaining thousands of followers by sharing insights about home repairs and budgeting. He recently posted about receiving his final paycheck, which he described as a stark reminder of the uncertainty that comes with the shutdown. "Today is day 11 of the government shutdown, and I just received my last paycheck for the foreseeable future," he shared, garnering over 70,000 views. With the shutdown's impact looming large, Ashton and his wife are reevaluating their financial plans and dipping into savings. His videos aim to debunk misconceptions surrounding air traffic control and the legal obligations of federal workers during the shutdown. Adding to the uncertainty, the White House has raised questions about whether furloughed employees will receive back pay after the government resumes operations. Many workers are receiving layoff notices, heightening concerns within the community. One TikTok user voiced frustration over the notion that employees will simply be compensated later, emphasizing, "Getting paid when this is all over is not paying my bills today. Have some compassion." Meanwhile, essential workers are banding together, with some setting up food pantries to support colleagues struggling to make ends meet. While the situation is serious, many federal workers are also using humor to cope, with videos featuring popular comedic sound bites reflecting their sentiments. The TikTok community has become a vital space for these workers to connect, share their stories, and seek understanding during a challenging time.