Trump Targets "Democrat Agencies" for Funding Cuts Amid Government Shutdown

Trump Threatens to Cut 'Democratic Agencies' Amid Government Shutdown In a move that has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the impact on federal workers, President Donald Trump announced plans to cut funding for what he described as "Democrat agencies" during the ongoing government shutdown. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump made the announcement on social media platform Truth Social, stating that he would meet with budget director Russ Vought to discuss temporary or permanent spending cuts. The move is seen as an effort by Trump to reshape the federal workforce and punish detractors. "We will be meeting with Director Vought to determine which of the many Democrat Agencies will be cut," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "We are continuing our efforts to slash federal spending, and we will not be deterred by the threats from the Democrats." The announcement has been met with criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argue that the move is an attempt to politicize the government shutdown and punish states that have supported their party. "This is a clear example of President Trump's willingness to use the government shutdown as a tool for partisan politics," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. "Cutting funding for essential services will only hurt American families and exacerbate the crisis." The move also raises concerns about the impact on federal workers, who have been furloughed or working without pay during the shutdown. "This is not just about cutting funding for 'Democrat agencies'," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). "It's about putting thousands of American families at risk and undermining the very fabric of our government." The government shutdown, which began on September 30, has already had a significant impact on federal workers and services. The move to cut funding for what Trump describes as "Democrat agencies" is seen as an escalation of the standoff between the White House and Congress. Background The government shutdown was triggered by a dispute over border security funding, with Democrats refusing to provide the $5 billion requested by Trump to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. The impasse has resulted in thousands of federal workers being furloughed or working without pay. Additional Perspectives While some Republicans have defended Trump's move, arguing that it is necessary to reduce government spending and promote efficiency, others have expressed concerns about the impact on federal services and workers. "This is a reckless and irresponsible decision by President Trump," said Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA). "Cutting funding for essential services will only make the crisis worse and hurt American families." Current Status The situation remains uncertain as negotiations between the White House and Congress continue. The move to cut funding for what Trump describes as "Democrat agencies" has added a new layer of complexity to the standoff, with both sides dug in and refusing to budge. As the shutdown enters its second week, federal workers remain on the front lines, working without pay or facing furloughs. The impact on services and the economy is growing by the day, raising concerns about the long-term consequences of the impasse. Next Developments The situation will likely continue to unfold in the coming days, with both sides remaining committed to their positions. As the shutdown drags on, the focus will shift from partisan politics to the impact on American families and the economy. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*