"Government Shutdown Sparks Massive Surge in Google Searches"

Google searches related to the potential government shutdown in the U.S. surged on Monday morning, with queries about the impact on Social Security, veterans' benefits, and the U.S. dollar seeing a significant increase. These breakout searches, marked as over 5,000% higher than the previous period, reflect growing concerns among Americans. The possibility of a shutdown arises from a disagreement between House conservatives and Speaker Kevin McCarthy over spending levels. While monthly Social Security checks will not be affected, other areas such as federally backed mortgages, mail service, federal-worker furloughs, and national parks could be impacted.