But Trump wants $5bn for the wall itself. The Democrats flatly declined that demand because they feel there is no crisis at the border. But the Republicans say that there is a crisis and that necessitates the putting up of a wall to ensure the safety of America.
Trump met Congressional leaders, both Republicans and Democrats, on Wednesday at the White House to discuss the situation but the meeting produced no deal to end the partial government shutdown.
“So the bottom line is very simple. We asked the president to support the bills that we support that will open up government. We asked him to give us one good reason, I asked him directly, I said, ‘Mr. President, give me one good reason why you should continue your shutdown of the, of the eight cabinet departments while we are debating our differences on homeland security. He could not give a good answer “, said Senator Chuck Schumer, Minority Leader.
Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said the House will vote once the new Congress convenes on Thursday. The voting is to take place on legislation to reopen government but without funds for the border wall.
Kevin McCarthy, House Republican leader, said the leaders plan to return to the White House on Friday to continue the negotiations. But the Democrats say they have not received any invitation so far .
It is learnt that President Trump did not concede to the Democrats’ offer to reopen the government while they keep discussing the border funding, because he “would look foolish if I did that”.
So it seems that not logic but ego is what is making Trump act the way he does in this imbroglio .
In the United States, if the Congress fails to pass or the President refuses to sign on spending plans, shutdown takes place. Many federal agencies remain close during the shutdown. However essential employees like medical professionals, Transportation Security Administration agents have to work without pay till the government reopens.
