Trump Supports Continuing Resolution Amid Shutdown
President Donald Trump expressed his support on Monday for a continuing resolution (CR) introduced in the Senate the previous night, indicating a possible resolution to the ongoing government shutdown.
As noted, Democrats faced significant setbacks on the 40th day of the shutdown. Eight members of their party agreed to back Republicans during procedural votes regarding a proposal that would fund the government at levels set for 2024 and 2025 through January 2026. Although a tentative timeline has been established, the legislation still requires 60 votes to move forward.
When asked about his support for the deal, Trump replied, “It depends on what kind of deal you’re talking about, but if it’s one I’ve heard of—certainly they want to adjust it a bit—but I would say yes.”
He added, “From what I understand, I don’t think they’ve altered anything. We have enough Democratic support to reopen the country. It’s unfortunate that we’ve been shut down, but we’re going to get things moving again soon.”
The proposed agreement consolidates three spending bills. These would ensure continued funding for various sectors, including agriculture, military construction, Veterans Affairs, and legislative activities through fiscal year 2026. However, this arrangement stands in stark contrast to earlier Democratic demands for extending Obamacare subsidies to aid in combating the coronavirus in exchange for their support.
Key features of the deal include back pay for federal employees, a guarantee of reemployment for over 4,000 federal workers who were laid off during the shutdown, and a freeze on future layoffs until January 30. However, these positions are minor compared to the estimated 250,000 jobs eliminated during the Trump administration prior to the shutdown.
Democrats supporting the bill included Senators Catherine Cortez Masto, John Fetterman, and Angus King, among others. This move broke from the stance of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, highlighting a fracture in party unity. Notably, several Senators who had previously voted against similar House resolutions participated in this vote.
This shift in support reflects diminishing influence for Schumer, lending weight to Trump’s remark made in late October that Schumer “was shot.”
Trump further elaborated, “He’s really struggling. I’ve known him a long time, and it seems like he’s lost his grip mentally. I feel for the guy.” Adding, “Every poll shows him losing… It’s tough for him to be around after what I’ve said, but I’m just stating the facts. I think Chuck might be finished.”
