Senator Chuck Schumer, the minority leader and Democrat from New York, announced his intention to vote with Republicans to facilitate a stopgap spending bill, emphasizing that a government shutdown would strengthen the influence of President Trump and Elon Musk in defunding government programs and reducing federal agencies.
Schumer expressed concerns that a shutdown would grant the Trump administration the authority to deem entire agencies and programs nonessential, potentially resulting in staff furloughs with no guarantees of reemployment.
However, many Democrats reacted with shock and anger at Schumer's position, arguing that extending spending would actually allow Trump's executive orders and Musk's initiatives to continue reshaping government, undermining Congressional authority in the process.
The political divide raises a critical question: Does the White House gain or lose power during a government shutdown? The situation is complex and requires careful consideration.
During a government shutdown, while essential government functions continue, federal employees and contractors do not receive pay, leading to furloughs until Congress approves new funding. Agencies typically develop contingency plans outlining essential operations, but the ultimate determination of what is "necessary" lies with the White House Office of Management and Budget.
Russell T. Vought, the current director of the Office of Management and Budget, has previously expanded the number of federal employees required to work during shutdowns, while also expressing a desire to significantly reduce the size of the federal government.
Experts note that the Trump administration's approach makes it difficult to predict the outcomes of a shutdown. The executive branch gains substantial discretion during such periods, allowing the president to decide on discretionary spending.
Jessica Riedl, a senior fellow at a right-leaning think tank, highlighted that during a shutdown, the president can selectively halt nonessential discretionary spending, potentially streamlining efforts to prioritize certain programs and leaving others unfunded.
In the context of ongoing disputes, Trump and Musk have already taken actions against programs they oppose, though the process has been met with legal challenges. A shutdown could simplify the process for the administration to determine which programs to prioritize.
Conversely, Senator Patty Murray voiced concerns that the funding extension would provide a "blank check" to Trump and Musk, enabling them to control taxpayer dollars while cutting essential funding for working individuals.
Regular spending bills provide specific guidance on federal funding allocations, whereas temporary extensions maintain current funding levels without adjustments. This has led to fears among Democrats that such extensions may enhance the Trump administration's control over federal funds.
Despite these concerns, Riedl noted that under temporary extensions, presidents are generally expected to adhere to Congressional spending levels unless explicitly altered. Nonetheless, the Trump administration has previously indicated that it does not feel constrained by Congressional budgetary decisions.
Democratic Senator Christopher S. Murphy criticized the potential for extending funding, arguing that it could unwittingly endorse actions detrimental to the rule of law and facilitate the administration's controversial policies.