White House Adviser Kevin Hassett Predicts U.S. Government Shutdown Likely Ending This Week Amid Ongoing Stalemate

Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council and a top economic advisor in President Trump's administration, forecasted that the U.S. government shutdown, now in its third week, is likely to end this week. Hassett attributed the delay primarily to Democratic Senators, particularly Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, with the deadlock centered around Democrats demanding additional healthcare funding, including an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits, as part of any continuing resolution. He suggested that some Democrats delayed reopening the government due to political optics surrounding recent nationwide "No Kings" protests against Trump but anticipated moderates would soon move to end the shutdown. The White House is preparing stronger measures if the stalemate continues, though specifics were not disclosed. The shutdown has caused disruption and is being closely monitored by markets amid ongoing economic data releases and Federal Reserve considerations. Hassett also mentioned that if the impasse persists, the administration will intensify efforts to bring Democrats to negotiate, reflecting growing frustration within the Trump White House.