Government Shutdown Imminent as Trump Cancels Key Talks with Democratic Leaders
Government Shutdown Imminent as Trump Cancels Key Talks with Democratic Leaders
President Donald Trump has abruptly canceled a critical meeting with congressional Democratic leaders, further intensifying the risk of a federal government shutdown just days before the October 1st deadline. The White House had initially agreed to the sit-down, but Trump announced his refusal to negotiate over Democratic demands for shoring up health care funds in a lengthy social media post on Tuesday.
In his post, Trump stated, “I have decided that no meeting with their Congressional Leaders could possibly be productive,” accusing Democrats, including Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, of “threatening to shut down the Government” by insisting on health care funding. Democratic leaders swiftly condemned the move, with Jeffries posting, “Trump Always Chickens Out,” and Schumer challenging Trump to discuss health care “when you’re finished ranting,” accusing him of “running away from the negotiating table.”
The stalemate centers on a funding deal, with Democrats pushing for expanded health insurance subsidies and a reversal of Medicaid cuts, while Republicans, who hold majorities in both chambers, have deemed these demands “nonstarter.” Efforts to pass a temporary funding measure failed in the Senate last week, with Democrats refusing support due to the absence of their health care priorities. With the Oct. 1 fiscal year deadline rapidly approaching and Congress previously sent home, House Democrats have been summoned back to work on Monday evening, with senators also expected to resume session, in a last-ditch effort to avert a federal closure.
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