President Donald Trump has stated that he and his budget director will determine which Democrat Agencies to cut as the US government shutdown approaches its third day.
Trump encouraged Republicans to take the opportunity to clear out dead wood in federal agencies, showing no signs of conceding to Democratic requests for funding legislation to include healthcare insurance subsidies. Meanwhile, Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill continue to shift blame regarding the failure to keep federal agencies operational.
Currently, hundreds of thousands of federal workers are on unpaid leave due to the shutdown, while essential personnel, such as law enforcement and air traffic controllers, continue to work without pay. Some federal attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, remain open, while others have closed to the public due to the funding impasse.
Analysts indicate that unless pressuring from constituents grows, neither party is likely to budge in negotiations. During Thursday's discussions, it was unclear which activities would be ceased under the guidance of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), typically associated with governmental shutdowns.
Trump's administration has paused billions of dollars in funding for Democratic states, inciting further tensions as the standoff continues. With politicians entrenched in their positions, pressure from everyday citizens may ultimately dictate the outcome of the shutdown.
