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Former Congressman Capuano On Democrats' Role In Ending Government Shutdown

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Echo Hunt holds a sign during a rally to call for an end to the partial government shutdown, in Detroit, Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019. (Paul Sancya/AP)
Echo Hunt holds a sign during a rally to call for an end to the partial government shutdown, in Detroit, Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019. (Paul Sancya/AP)

Dozens of federal employees and supporters rallied outside the State House on Thursday, demanding the government re-open.

On day 27, it's the longest-ever government shutdown in U.S. history, with over 8,000 people in Massachusetts without pay. Among those affected are Danielle and Ramesh Vyas, who live paycheck to paycheck in Lowell with their three teenage children. Ramesh is a contact representative for the IRS, so he's heading back to work without pay. Danielle is disabled and stays at home.

For them, the shutdown could mean losing their house.

Plus, former Congressman Michael Capuano shares his thoughts on the shutdown and how he thinks the Democrats should negotiate a deal to end it.

Guests

Ramesh and Danielle Vyas, two people directly affected by the shutdown. Ramesh works as a contact representative for the IRS and is heading back to work without pay. Danielle tweets @DSandraVyas.

Michael Capuano, former congressman from Massachusetts' 7th District. He tweets @mikecapuano.

This article was originally published on January 17, 2019.

This segment aired on January 17, 2019.

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