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Utahns face financial strain due to inflation, job market issues and government shutdown.

A poll shows 51% live paycheck-to-paycheck while 25% struggle with basic expenses.

Emergency services report increased demand for aid as federal shutdown exacerbates financial challenges.

SALT LAKE CITY — A growing number of Utahns are facing mounting financial challenges thanks to a convergence of issues that include persistent inflation, a weakening U.S. jobs market and a federal government shutdown that has put hundreds of thousands out of work and threatened funding of critical programs.

Among those working to navigate the myriad fiscal hurdles are Emma and Bryan Mendez-Edwards, both college-educated professionals whose previous stability is und

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