Press Secretary Warns of Funding Cuts Amid Government Shutdown

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioned Democrats on Thursday that the Trump administration’s potential cuts to federal funding programs are “very realistic” as the government remains shut down.

“Democrats should recognize that they’ve placed the White House and the President in this position. If they don’t want to go back to their states and cause further issues for their members, they really need to reopen the government,” Leavitt stated during an appearance on “American Newsroom.”

“It’s pretty straightforward. Just pass a clean, continuous resolution, and all this will fade away.”

Leavitt’s remarks follow President Trump’s threats to consider layoffs and permanent funding cuts during the ongoing shutdown.

House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this sentiment, suggesting that it presents an opportunity for the GOP in an interview with Fox Business on Wednesday. He mentioned that while government closures are tough on people who depend on federal services, they can also serve as a chance to shrink government size, which some members of the party have always aimed for.

Johnson remarked, “In a way, Chuck Schumer has handed over the keys to the kingdom to President Trump, which means he won’t need a Democrat’s support to proceed.” This indicates a significant shift in dynamics for the Republicans.

Leavitt added that later on Thursday, Trump and the Director of the Office of Budget and Management, Russell Vaut, will convene to discuss potential cuts while ensuring crucial funds, particularly for military salaries, are preserved.