Trump Layoffs Harden Democrats' Shutdown Stance
President Donald Trump's decision to order permanent layoffs on Friday amid a government shutdown has hardened Democrats' stance against reopening the government, prolonging what is already the fourth-longest shutdown in U.S. history.
The firings announced by Trump budget chief Russell Vought have been met with outrage from Senate Democrats, who call them "illegal" and a continuation of an administration that has ignored spending laws since Trump's return to power in January. Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) slammed the move, saying, "No one should be intimidated by these crooks." She emphasized that compromise is necessary to reopen government, stating, "The way we reopen government is compromise, a simple concept every American understands and no amount of threats will change that."
Background on the shutdown reveals a deepening divide between Democrats and Republicans. Bipartisan deal-making has become increasingly rare on Capitol Hill, where goodwill has worn thin. The shutdown's impact is being felt across the country, with thousands of federal workers furloughed or working without pay.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) echoed Murray's sentiments, stating that Trump's actions have "shattered any remaining trust" between the two parties. He added that Democrats will not be swayed by threats and are willing to negotiate a compromise to reopen government.
In contrast, some Republicans argue that Trump's decision was necessary to protect taxpayers from waste and inefficiency within the federal government. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) defended the move, saying, "We're not going to continue to fund an inefficient and wasteful bureaucracy."
The shutdown has already lasted 35 days, with no end in sight. Democrats are insisting that any deal to reopen government must address border security concerns and provide relief for affected federal workers. Republicans, meanwhile, are pushing for increased funding for the military and border security measures.
As the standoff continues, lawmakers on both sides remain entrenched in their positions. The outcome remains uncertain, with many predicting a prolonged shutdown unless a compromise is reached soon.
*Reporting by Fortune.*
