President Trump reiterated his appeal for Democrats to finance the government on what marked the 26th day of the shutdown, as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and his party continue to resist the Clean Continuance Resolution.
While traveling from Malaysia to Japan, during the latter part of his Asia tour, President Trump spoke to Democrats aboard Air Force One and was questioned about funding for air traffic controllers.
He pointed out, “That’s true, but the Democrats should just extend it. They’re not doing that.”
Trump added, “They want $1.5 trillion for people coming out of prison and for illegal immigrants. We don’t want that. It could really harm our healthcare system. Honestly, we want better healthcare,” he stated.
It’s worth mentioning that Democrats aim to revoke certain provisions in the One Big Beautiful Act that would cut taxpayer health benefits for illegal immigrants and noncitizens. Almost all Senate Republicans along with some Democrats voted for the House-approved CR to maintain government funding at the 2024 level established by then-President Biden.
However, overcoming the stalemate requires 60 votes to advance the bill. This means several Democrats would need to align with others, including Sen. John Fetterman, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, and Sen. Angus King, plus the 52 Republicans who have consistently supported the CR.
“Democrats can resolve the air traffic control issue. They just need to declare that the country is open. All we need is five votes. Republicans will collaborate with us. Let’s see where it goes,” he said.
“It’s not just air traffic controllers we’re concerned about; there are other individuals as well,” he added.
At another moment in the conference, Trump stated, “We just want people to receive their pay.”
“Economically, our country is doing quite well. We’re performing incredibly,” he commented. “The Democrats should just open things up. It’s unfortunate they’re not because it seems they’re doing so well. But… in a broader sense, the effects aren’t significant. We want people to get paid.”
Trump also acknowledged an unnamed donor, Timothy Mellon, who contributed $130 million to ensure military personnel are compensated.
“What about the gentleman who donated $130 million to ensure our military is taken care of?” Trump asked, choosing not to disclose the individual’s identity. “However, this person reached out to me and said, ‘Sir, I want to help the U.S. military in any way possible.’
“I said, ‘I’m not sure, it could be substantial.’ We worked it out, and it amounted to about $130 million. He’s an extraordinary patriot, so he cut a check for $130 million. That’s what it’s all about.”
