Looming Shutdown and White House Warning
President Donald Trump cautioned Democrats on Tuesday that a federal government shutdown at midnight could trigger “irreversible” steps, including cuts to federal programs and reductions in the federal workforce. Speaking from the Oval Office, he said his administration was prepared to act if Congress fails to pass temporary funding.
Trump pointed to Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, highlighting his ability to implement aggressive budget reductions that could not be easily undone.
Congressional Stalemate
The United States faces its 15th shutdown since 1981 unless lawmakers reach agreement on a temporary spending bill. The Senate is expected to vote again, though an earlier effort already failed.
Key points of dispute include:
- Democrats’ demands: Extension of health benefits for millions of Americans set to expire this year.
- Republicans’ position: Benefits should be addressed in separate legislation.
Without a deal, federal agencies will begin closing non-essential operations at the start of the fiscal year.
Potential Impact on Services
If funding lapses, agencies plan to scale back a wide range of activities:
- Air travel: Airlines warn of possible delays.
- Labor data: The Department of Labor would halt publication of the monthly unemployment report.
- Small business support: The Small Business Administration would stop issuing loans.
- Environmental response: The Environmental Protection Agency would suspend some cleanup projects.
Health policy experts noted that Medicare reimbursements for at-home hospital care and telehealth services could also be disrupted.
Broader Consequences
A prolonged shutdown would have ripple effects:
- Public housing support could be reduced.
- Head Start early childhood education grants could be delayed.
- Federal employees deemed “nonessential” would be sent home without pay.
During Trump’s first term, the government closed for 35 days between 2018 and 2019 in a funding dispute over immigration policy.
Tensions Rise Over Political Strategy
Talks between the White House and congressional leaders on Monday ended without progress. Trump later shared an online video mocking Democratic leaders, drawing criticism from opponents. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries denounced the video and challenged Trump directly.
Meanwhile, Democrats remain divided over whether to risk a shutdown while pushing for extended health subsidies. Some argue the stakes are too high for families who rely on federal programs.
Outlook
Any last-minute deal would need approval from both the Senate and the Republican-controlled House, which is not scheduled to meet until after the deadline. Trump has made clear that if Democrats refuse to negotiate, his administration is prepared to proceed with deep workforce and program reductions.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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