President Donald Trump warned that if the government shuts down, his administration plans to “cut a lot of people … on a permanent basis.” The White House said thousands of federal jobs are at risk if lawmakers fail to reach a funding deal.
Republicans and Democrats remain far apart as the shutdown deadline approaches. The Trump administration has instructed agencies to prepare for mass firings—an unusual step, since employees are typically furloughed, not terminated, during shutdowns.
Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries urged Trump to join negotiations to end the impasse, calling his involvement “essential.” Some Republicans agree his engagement could help, though others say he’s focused on foreign issues.
Senate GOP leaders John Thune and Mike Johnson insist Democrats must first pass a short-term funding bill before broader talks can resume. The White House maintains it won’t negotiate “while the American people are being held hostage.”
As the shutdown stretches into its third week, Democrats blame Trump’s disengagement, while Republicans accuse Democrats of blocking the House-passed bill. Johnson has led the GOP’s public messaging, refusing to make concessions.
Lawmakers from both parties say the standoff will end only when Trump personally intervenes, but so far, he appears unwilling to do so.