Trump Blames Democrats for Government Shutdown, Highlights Economic Gains
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump on Monday attributed the ongoing partial government shutdown to Democratic lawmakers, asserting that Republicans bear no responsibility for the stalemate over Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized what he described as significant economic achievements during his administration, including low inflation rates and declining fuel prices.
“This is a Democrat shutdown,” Trump told reporters, underscoring that the GOP has “nothing to do with it.” The dispute centers on funding for DHS, a critical agency responsible for national security and immigration enforcement, which has yet to receive congressional approval for its budget, leading to disruptions in government operations. The Department of Homeland Security has faced challenges in maintaining full functionality amid the impasse.
Trump highlighted what he called “great financial numbers,” pointing to inflation rates that remain historically low. “You saw low inflation, very low inflation. Prices are down. Way down,” he said. He also touted the decline in gasoline prices, noting that in many parts of the country, gas costs less than $2 per gallon—a figure that contrasts with the national average, which remains closer to $3. While some states report prices just above $2, the overall trend reflects a notable decrease in fuel costs. This development aligns with broader economic indicators tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which monitors inflation and consumer prices.
“Prices are coming down very strongly,” Trump added, linking the drop in gasoline and oil prices to reductions in the cost of other goods. This relationship between energy prices and overall consumer costs is a key factor in economic forecasting and policymaking.
In addition to economic points, Trump mentioned a falling murder rate, suggesting improvements in public safety under his administration. While specific crime statistics were not detailed in his remarks, crime trends remain a focal point in national discussions about law enforcement and community safety.
The partial government shutdown has raised concerns about the impact on federal employees and services. Agencies such as the Immigration and Customs Enforcement continue to operate under constrained conditions, with some personnel working without pay. The shutdown also affects border security operations and other critical functions overseen by DHS.
Negotiations in Congress remain deadlocked, with Democrats and Republicans unable to reach a consensus on DHS funding levels and policy provisions. Senate and House leaders are under pressure to resolve the impasse to restore full government operations. Meanwhile, the public watches closely as the political battle unfolds, with potential ramifications for upcoming elections and governance.
As the shutdown continues, the administration’s messaging focuses on framing the dispute as a partisan issue, with President Trump placing the onus squarely on Democratic lawmakers. The economic data cited by Trump offers a counterpoint to the political turmoil, suggesting areas of strength amid the uncertainty. Observers await further developments as talks continue and the effects of the shutdown deepen across federal agencies.
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