Trump Accuses Schumer of Extortion Over 140 Blocked Senate Confirmations

President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for blocking the confirmation of over 140 of his administration's nominees, accusing Schumer and Senate Democrats of extortion by demanding $2 billion in federal funding in exchange for approving the appointments. Trump labeled Schumer and Democrats as 'country-hating thugs' and insisted that such delays and demands are unprecedented in U.S. history. The standoff follows failed negotiations before the Senate's summer recess, where Democrats sought billions in funding for agencies like the National Institutes of Health and foreign aid programs as leverage to advance the confirmations. Republicans are considering changing Senate rules to bypass filibusters and push through the nominations with a simple majority vote. The deadlock has heightened tensions in Congress ahead of a critical September 30 funding deadline, raising concerns about potential legislative gridlock. Despite bipartisan committee approvals for many nominees, Democrats argue some appointees are unqualified, further complicating the confirmation process.