NBC News writes about day 15 of the government shutdown where a Senator hosts a well-attended birthday party for his dog and Trump holds a swanky party for the rich. A stark contrast for the thousands of federal workers stressing about staying afloat without a paycheck or for the millions of Americans who are finding out their ACA monthly premium is currently set to increase by hundreds of dollars each month.

On Day 15 of the government shutdown, Sen. Jim Justice celebrated his bulldog Babydog's 6th birthday with cake pops, balloons and a quick press conference. NBC News' Julie Tsirkin covered the paw-ty.

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-- NBC News (@nbcnews.com) Oct 17, 2025 at 1:20 PM