Trump Warns of Potential Government Shutdown, Pushes for Funding Deal

A potential U.S. government shutdown looms as Congress faces a critical deadline to pass a temporary funding bill before March 14, President Donald Trump warned on Sunday while addressing reporters.

Despite the risk, Trump remains optimistic that a continuing resolution (CR) — which would extend current government funding levels until September 30 — will gain approval.

House Republicans Push Six-Month Stopgap Spending Bill

The Republican-led House introduced a six-month stopgap spending bill on March 8, with a vote scheduled for March 11. Trump has thrown his support behind the CR, urging Republicans to back the measure to ensure financial stability for the country.

His endorsement has influenced some hardline Republicans, a crucial factor given the party's slim 218-214 majority in the House.

Key Provisions and Political Challenges

The proposed funding plan seeks to reduce non-defense discretionary spending by $13 billion while allocating an additional $6 billion to defense. It also includes increased funding for border enforcement, a contentious issue that is expected to spark strong opposition from House Democrats.

Democratic lawmakers have criticized the bill’s deep spending cuts and provisions that would expand the White House’s authority over federal expenditures. The proposal faces an uphill battle in the Senate, where it will need at least 60 votes to advance, requiring some Democratic support to avoid a government shutdown.

As negotiations continue, investors, federal employees, and policymakers are watching closely, with the outcome set to have significant economic and political implications.

(Sources: investing.com, reuters.com)