The shutdown of the federal government, now in its 12th day, is impacting reporters who cover sensitive diplomatic and national security issues, as the State and Defense Departments, among others, close their doors.
Reporters seeking comment from these agencies are being met with an automatic message telling them no one is available to field their press requests due to the shutdown.
"Due to the lapse in appropriations, the Press Office will be operating on a reduced status," reads a message from the State Department that has been sent to reporters seeking help on their articles since last week. "Communications with the media will be limited to events and issues involving the safety of human life or the protection of property, or those determined to be essential to national security. We will endeavor to be responsive to your query under those guidelines."
Federal workers have already sought to sue the Trump administration over the shutdown and federal agencies are beginning to feel the cash crunch as reserve funds run out.