Trump Refuses Democratic Meeting Until Government Reopens Amid Historic Shutdown

President Donald Trump has refused to meet with top Democratic leaders Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries until they agree to reopen the government by approving a Republican-led stopgap funding bill amid the longest US government shutdown in history. Democrats are withholding support for the funding bill unless there is an extension of an enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credit due to expire at the end of the year, which has been a key sticking point in negotiations. Republican lawmakers, including Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, have acknowledged the likelihood of needing to extend the stopgap funding beyond its current expiration date to reopen government operations. Some Republicans have expressed frustration with President Trump's disengagement from the issue, noting little discussion has taken place even during private meetings. The White House press secretary reiterated that President Trump is willing to meet with Democrats to discuss healthcare or other issues but insists these talks can only happen after the government reopens. This stalemate continues to impact millions of Americans facing increased healthcare premiums and uncertainty due to the ongoing shutdown.