Tough times for Melania as government shutdown affects FLOTUS

First Lady Melania Trump's personal staff halved by the government shutdown.

The government shutdown that has left 800,000 federal employees on furlough without a salary is now affecting the White House and its distinguished residents.

Three-quarters of the White House staff has been furloughed, and among them are 5 of the FLOTUS staff of 10.

SHUTDOWN IMPACT REACHES THE WHITE HOUSE

Melania Trump's communications director, Stephanie Grisham, informed the media that the FLOTUS has curtailed her activities due to the drastic staff reduction:

"We are in the planning phase for 2019 in terms of 'Be Best' and annual functions at the White House. The First Lady is using this time for meetings and planning/strategy sessions."

The FLOTUS has not been engaged in any public activity since her Christmas visit to the troops in Iraq alongside President Donald Trump.

The shutdown, which started on December 22, 2018, is now the longest in the United States history

POPULAR WHITE HOUSE TOURS SUSPENDED

Among the activities under the purvey of the First Lady's office are the popular White House tours which have been suspended for the duration of the shutdown.

This has had a negative impact on local commerce who relies heavily on the approximately 6,000 people who visit the White House a day for their profit.

THE LONGEST SHUTDOWN IN U.S. HISTORY

The shutdown, which started on December 22, 2018, is now the longest in the United States history, and is the result of a deadlock between President Trump and Congress.

Congress has refused to attribute the $5,7 billion funds the President requires to build the border wall between the United States and Mexico which he promises will curb illegal immigration and reduce crime.

MOST WHITE HOUSE EVENTS CANCELLED FOR THE DURATION

Events scheduled to take place in the White House have been canceled or postponed due to the lack of staff.

The President's residence is usually staffed by approximately 3,300 permanent staff members whose duties range from maintenance to administrative duties, to the five chefs who run the White House kitchens.

PRESIDENT TRUMP SERVES FAST FOOD AT WHITE HOUSE DINNER

College football champions, the Clemson University Tigers, were invited to visit the White House by President Donald Trump, but at dinner time they were in for a surprise.

“I think we’re going to serve McDonald’s, Wendy’s & Burger King, with some pizza. I would think that’s their favorite food.”

President Donald Trump

Instead of the traditional White House dinner prepared by its justly famous chefs, the athletes were confronted with a banquet of burgers, fries, and other treats from various fast food restaurants.

The event has sparked off a storm of criticism and mockery on social media, with many attributing Trump the sobriquet President "McDonald."

In a related story, Melania Trump was criticized after unveiling extravagant White House Christmas decorations.