Bipartisan Pressure Mounts As U.S. Government Shutdown Looms

Congress is facing a likely government shutdown after President Trump canceled a meeting with Senate and House Democratic leaders, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, over disagreements on funding legislation. Senate Democrats refuse to support any House-passed funding bills without negotiations, but Republicans, backed by Trump, insist on a "clean" continuing resolution without concessions. Trump has indicated he will prioritize funding for Republican initiatives and redirect resources from Democratic-leaning states during the shutdown. The White House circulated a memo warning federal agencies to prepare for mass layoffs if funding lapses, further escalating tensions. Meanwhile, union leaders and lawmakers, including Sen. Mitch McConnell, emphasize the need for bipartisan compromise to prevent harm to federal workers and essential services. Pressure mounts on both parties to negotiate a deal as the shutdown deadline approaches, highlighting the political standoff and its impact on government operations and employees.