Trump’s Opposition to Funding Bill Nears Government Shutdown
In a shocking turn of events, President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance have thrown a bipartisan government funding bill into chaos. The bill, aimed at keeping the government open until March 14, is now at risk of being derailed by Trump’s grave opposition. The looming threat of a government shutdown this Saturday at 12:01 a.m. has left Congress scrambling for a solution.
Trump’s Demands and Criticisms
Trump’s scathing statement called for Republicans to “GET SMART and TOUGH” in the face of potential Democratic threats to shut down the government. He accused Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and President Joe Biden of obstructing aid to farmers and disaster relief. Trump also demanded the inclusion of a debt ceiling increase in the legislation, catching both parties off guard.
Reactions and Criticisms
Conservatives, both inside and outside Congress, have criticized the bill, with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna calling it a “s— sandwich.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries warned that if Republicans abandon the deal, they will bear the responsibility for a government shutdown. Elon Musk, Trump’s billionaire ally, joined in the criticism, calling for a monthlong shutdown until Jan. 20.
Lawmakers’ Response
Republican lawmakers like Rep. Eric Burlison and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have expressed support for Musk’s opposition to the bill, citing concerns about overspending and reckless funding practices. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen highlighted the risks a government shutdown poses to vulnerable populations in need of disaster aid. Some Republicans are pointing fingers at Speaker Mike Johnson for the bill’s flaws.
As the situation continues to unfold, the fate of the funding bill hangs in the balance. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
Sahil Kapur, Ryan Nobles, Kyle Stewart, Julie Tsirkin, Kate Santaliz, Ali Vitali, Syedah Asghar, and Brennan Leach have contributed to this report.
