Trump Walks Away From Talks, Government Shutdown Looms Sept 30

President Trump has canceled scheduled meetings with Democratic congressional leaders, accusing them of making unrealistic demands involving significant spending, including on transgender surgeries and healthcare for undocumented immigrants, and has expressed willingness to let the government shut down. Democrats propose extending healthcare subsidies and reversing cuts from Trump's previous legislation, but negotiations have stalled amid mutual refusals to compromise, increasing the likelihood of a shutdown. The Republican-led House passed a short-term funding bill, but it has stalled in the Senate where Democratic support is needed, with Democrats criticizing the bill for lacking bipartisan input. Trump aims to leverage a shutdown to wield broad authority over federal spending allocations, potentially cutting funding to programs and states he opposes. Critics warn that a shutdown could harm services and the economy, though Trump and some allies view it as a strategic win and an opportunity to blame Democrats if the economy falters. The standoff reflects deep partisan divisions over fiscal priorities and governance approaches as the funding deadline approaches.