Clock ticks toward Friday as US gov't shutdown looms

Services considered essential, such as law enforcement or public safety, would continue. Military operations would continue, as would medical care for US veterans, air traffic control and criminal investigations conducted by the federal government. The US Postal Service would also continue its operations.

On the list for suspension would be national parks and certain museums in Washington, D.C.. There would also be delays in passport and visa applications.

Many Americans believe the US government spends far too much.

Kim Bristol, in her 50s and working in information technology in the D.C. area, told Xinhua: "I believe that the government spends money frivolously."

She also questioned why "career politicians live in million dollar houses when they make 200,000 a year."

Carl Richardson, in his 40s and in food management in the D.C. area, told Xinhua he believes the government "spends too much."

Polls show that approval of Congress remains low.

A paltry 27 percent of Americans approve of the job Congress is doing and 69 percent disapprove, according to a Gallup poll released earlier this month.