Trump Blames Democrats for Government Shutdown, Offers No Healthcare Cost Solution
TL/DR –
President Trump blames Democrats for a government shutdown that is on track to become the longest in history, stating that Democrats have lost their way and referring to them as “crazed lunatics.” The shutdown is due to disagreements about Obamacare subsidies, with Democrats wanting to prolong these for over 20 million Americans. President Trump said Obamacare is a “terrible” system, confirmed he has no immediate plan to address healthcare costs, and suggested that a bipartisan effort is required to improve the system.
Government Shutdown Continues: Trump Blames Democrats
President Trump has criticized Democrats for the ongoing government shutdown, predicted to break the record for the longest in history. However, he did not propose an immediate solution for health care costs, an issue that Democrats want to address by extending subsidies for Americans with Obamacare.
Federal Workers and Military Go Unpaid
Federal employees and active-duty military personnel continue working while their pay is delayed due to the shutdown, which also jeopardizes November’s food stamp benefits for millions.
Trump’s Plan: “Keep Voting”
Trump insists that a unanimous Republican vote will end the shutdown and criticizes Democrats for their opposition. He also addresses the potential doubling of insurance costs under Obamacare without federal subsidies, which he labels as “terrible”.
No Agreed-Upon Plan to Replace Obamacare
While Trump has discussed health care reforms during his term, no concrete plan to replace Obamacare has been agreed upon. The president suggests that the Democrats should “let the country open and we’ll fix it.”
Trump Urges for Tougher Republicans and End to Filibuster
Trump believes Democrats will eventually yield and vote to end the shutdown. He also proposes the nuclear option, ending the filibuster, although Senate Majority Leader John Thune is unwilling to do so.
Trump’s 60 Minutes Interview
Trump discussed the shutdown in his first interview with 60 Minutes in five years, where he also talked about China, Venezuela, and U.S. tariffs and immigration policies.
More from CBS News
For more government shutdown news, stay updated with CBS News.
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