Despite efforts by the Pentagon to ensure U.S. troops received pay, the federal government shutdown continues indefinitely. Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi predicts the impasse could endure for a record-breaking "five, six weeks." Zandi emphasized that the temporary pay fix has merely delayed an imminent breaking point and without progress on a broader funding agreement, critical services may soon be compromised, leading to a potential month-long standoff. With vital federal data releases on hold, economists are turning to private sources for labor market insights. More details can be found on Benzinga.com regarding the ongoing federal government shutdown.