Washington, D.C.
A looming government shutdown has escalated into a heated political standoff after former President Donald Trump canceled a planned budget meeting with Democratic leaders.
Democrats accuse Trump and GOP lawmakers of “barreling the country toward a shutdown” by refusing to consider healthcare concessions aimed at addressing the needs of Americans. Party leaders argue that withholding their votes is a way to protect citizens from what they view as harmful Republican budget policies.
“If the government shuts down, that’s 100% on the GOP,” Democrats declared, pointing to Trump’s hardline stance.
Meanwhile, Republicans, led by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, argue that Democrats are holding the budget hostage, demanding taxpayer funding for free healthcare for undocumented immigrants. They insist Democrats would be responsible for any shutdown.
With both sides entrenched, negotiations remain stalled. If no deal is reached soon, Americans may face a shutdown that disrupts federal services and threatens economic stability.