United States President, Donald Trump on Sunday said that a government shutdown could happen if the House of Representatives cannot muster enough votes to pass a temporary funding bill, expressing optimism that the measure will be approved.
Trump stated this when reporters asked him whether there is going to be a government shutdown this week when funding runs out on March 14.
“It could happen. It shouldn’t have happened, and it probably won’t. I think the CR is going to get passed. We’ll see,” he said.
The president was referring to the bill, a continuing resolution that would fund the government at current levels for the remainder of fiscal year 2025, which ends September 30.
It could be recalled that Republicans, who control the House, unveiled a six-month stopgap spending bill on Saturday, and a vote on the measure is expected on Tuesday.
Trump, however, signaled his support for the continuing resolution on Saturday, urging his fellow Republicans to vote in favor of it.
“All Republicans should vote (Please!) YES next week. Great things are coming for America, and I am asking you all to give us a few months to get us through to September so we can continue to put the Country’s ‘financial house’ in order,” Trump posted on social media on Saturday.
His support for the funding plan has reportedly encouraged some hard-line Republicans who have previously voted against similar stopgap funding bills, a crucial hurdle in the chamber where House Speaker Mike Johnson leads a slim Republican 218-214 majority.
US: Govt shutdown possible, but will be averted – Trump
