President Trump has blamed Democrats for the ongoing government shutdown, which is on track to become the longest in U.S. history. His remarks, made during a recent interview, highlight a deepening partisan divide as tens of thousands of federal workers go unpaid and public services face delays.
Caribbean strikes: Government Shutdown Deepens Amid Partisan Clash
Trump’s Accusations Against Democrats
In a candid 60 Minutes interview, President Trump described Democrats as “crazed lunatics” and criticized their approach to resolving the shutdown. He argues that their refusal to vote for extension measures has prolonged the crisis, pushing federal workers closer to missing critical benefits like November food stamps. Active-duty military and National Guard personnel are also affected, as their pay is on hold until the shutdown is resolved.
Dispute Over Health Care Costs
A key sticking point remains health care. Democrats are insisting that any deal should include extended government subsidies for Americans relying on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). Trump, however, has dismissed Obamacare as “terrible” and said Republicans nearly succeeded in repealing it in 2017, falling just one vote short. He offered no detailed replacement plan during the interview.
Furloughed Workers and Public Services
The shutdown, now rivaling the 35-day record from 2018-2019, is impacting millions of Americans—from federal employees to those reliant on government programs. Trump insists the solution is for Democrats to “capitulate and vote,” maintaining that Republicans are united and voting to end the shutdown.
Political Tactics and Long-Term Strategy
Trump floated the idea of ending the filibuster, a move Senate Majority Leader John Thune opposes. He believes more aggressive Republican tactics could break the deadlock, saying, “If we end the filibuster, we can do exactly what we want. We’re not going to lose power”.
Wide-Ranging Discussion
The president’s interview also touched on other national issues, including China, Venezuela, tariffs, and immigration policy, showing the broad scope of his administration’s ongoing challenges.