David Karol Joins WUSA9 to Discuss Federal Workforce Fallout

GVPT Associate Professor David Karol joined WUSA9’s “Federal Workforce Fallout” streaming program to discuss the political divisions driving recurring government shutdowns and the impact shutdowns can have on federal employees and the public. 

During the interview, Karol discussed how growing divisions between the political parties have made government shutdowns more common and explained how federal workers often become “pawns in a political struggle” during funding disputes. He also examined proposed legislation designed to protect federal employees from credit damage caused by missed payments during shutdowns, while noting the political obstacles the bill could face in Congress.

Karol additionally examined how shutdowns affect both government services and federal employees, particularly in the Washington region, where many households rely on federal employment.

Watch Karol’s Full Interview on WUSA9

Published on Thu, 05/14/2026 - 12:35