Lawmakers Urge Trump to Prevent Imminent US Government Shutdown

Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer and House Leader Hakeem Jeffries, are pressing President Donald Trump to negotiate a bipartisan deal to avoid a government shutdown as the funding deadline approaches on September 30. Democrats oppose the Republican-backed short-term spending bill, advocating instead for a plan that includes protections for Medicaid and Affordable Care Act subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of 2025. Despite Republicans controlling both chambers, they lack enough support in the Senate to pass the funding measure without Democratic votes, with Schumer refusing to rule out backing a "clean" continuing resolution if necessary to prevent a shutdown. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has resisted direct negotiations with Democrats, waiting on clearer guidance from Trump, who has expressed willingness to meet but doubts such talks will influence the outcome. Democrats blame Republican leaders for avoiding bipartisan negotiations, warning that a shutdown would disrupt services and leave federal workers unpaid, while pushing for health care provisions to be included in any funding agreement. The situation remains uncertain as lawmakers return from recess with limited time to reach a compromise before the government potentially shuts down.