Congress Faces Shutdown Amid Trump and Musk Criticism
The US Congress faces chaos as Donald Trump and Elon Musk publicly oppose a bipartisan spending deal. With a government shutdown just two days away, federal services like National Parks and Border Patrol risk closure unless Congress passes a new funding bill by Saturday.
Trump called on Republicans to reject the proposed 1,500-page bill, known as a continuing resolution, which includes $110bn for disaster relief and $30bn for farmers. He emphasized limiting the bill to temporary spending and disaster aid while raising the debt ceiling to maintain government operations.
“CALL THEIR BLUFF if Democrats demand everything they want,” Trump declared on Truth Social.
The Controversial Spending Bill at a Glance
Key features of the now-rejected bill:
- Over $110bn in emergency disaster relief
- $30bn in farming aid
- Healthcare reforms and provisions against deceptive advertising by venues
- Lawmakers’ first pay raise since 2009
Despite bipartisan efforts, Republican Congressman Steve Scalise confirmed that the bill is “dead.” Speaker Mike Johnson has yet to propose a new plan, leaving uncertainty as the shutdown deadline approaches.
Musk’s Role in the Debate
Tech billionaire Elon Musk, set to guide government spending under Trump’s future administration, voiced strong opposition to the deal. On X, Musk posted:
“Your representatives heard you. The voice of the people has triumphed. The terrible bill is dead.”
White House Response and Next Steps
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre criticized Republicans for risking a shutdown:
“A damaging government shutdown would hurt families. Republicans should stop playing politics.”
This potential shutdown would mark the 22nd government shutdown in modern US history. The longest shutdown—lasting 35 days—occurred during Trump’s first term.
External Link: Explore the full details at BBC News.
Internal Link: Learn more about the economic impact at Kenkou Land.
