As the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-shutdown-enters-2nd-month-tuesday-no-quick-end-in-sight-yet-191897"> US government shutdown entered</a> its second month, President Trump in a series of tweets defended his decision on the Mexican border wall while blaming the Democrats of "playing politics".

President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-shutdown-could-stunt-economic-growth-new-york-federal-reserve-chief-191315">Trump has been overseeing the</a> partial shutdown of key US government departments which began on December 22nd over funding for a wall to block illegal immigration at the border with Mexico.

"Without a wall our country can never have border or national security. With a powerful wall or steel barrier, crime rates (and drugs) will go substantially down all over the US," the president said, adding,"The Dems know this but want to play political games. Must finally be done correctly."

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Without a Wall our Country can never have Border or National Security. With a powerful Wall or Steel Barrier, Crime Rates (and Drugs) will go substantially down all over the U.S. The Dems know this but want to play political games. Must finally be done correctly. No Cave!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1087693453394432001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump has been demanding $5.7 billion from Democrats in the House of Representatives led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to build the Mexican border wall, however, the Democrats haven't agreed to the deal instead have agreed to just over $1 billion deal which includes several border security measures.&nbsp;

A number of departments have been hit as a result of the shutdown including the crucial homeland security, transport and the State Department.

The president has stood firm in the past month demanding the full amount from the Democrats leading to a standoff, in a tweet Trump said: "If we create a wall or barrier which prevents criminals and drugs from flowing into our Country, crime will go down by record numbers!"

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Never seen <a href="https://twitter.com/senatemajldr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@senatemajldr</a> and Republicans so united on an issue as they are on the Humanitarian Crisis &amp; Security on our Southern Border. If we create a Wall or Barrier which prevents Criminals and Drugs from flowing into our Country, Crime will go down by record numbers!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1087723755898658816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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About 800,000 workers have been furloughed or working without pay even as several national parks, museums and some airport security checkpoints have been closed.

In a tweet on Monday, Admiral Karl Schultz said: "Our USCG members sail across the world to protect US national interests while their loved ones cope with financial challenges &amp; no pay at home."

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Today, the 418-foot <a href="https://twitter.com/USCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCG</a> Cutter Bertholf departed for a multi-month deployment in support of a <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofDefense</a> Combatant Commander. Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USCG</a> members sail across the world to protect U.S. national interests while their loved ones cope w/ financial challenges &amp; no pay at home. <a href="https://t.co/GtSo1GTUnp">pic.twitter.com/GtSo1GTUnp</a>
— Admiral Karl Schultz (@ComdtUSCG) <a href="https://twitter.com/ComdtUSCG/status/1087190396663447553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As the logjam continued, The New York Times reported that Democrats had added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure.&nbsp;

As the US government shutdown entered its second month, President Trump in a series of tweets defended his decision on the Mexican border wall while blaming the Democrats of "playing politics".

As the US government shutdown entered its second month, President Trump in a series of tweets defended his decision on the Mexican border wall while blaming the Democrats of "playing politics". President Trump has been overseeing the partial shutdown of key US government departments which began on December 22nd over funding for a wall to block illegal immigration at the border with Mexico. "Without a wall our country can never have border or national security. With a powerful wall or steel barrier, crime rates (and drugs) will go substantially down all over the US," the president said, adding,"The Dems know this but want to play political games. Must finally be done correctly." Without a Wall our Country can never have Border or National Security. With a powerful Wall or Steel Barrier, Crime Rates (and Drugs) will go substantially down all over the U.S. The Dems know this but want to play political games. Must finally be done correctly. No Cave! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 22, 2019 × Trump has been demanding $5.7 billion from Democrats in the House of Representatives led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to build the Mexican border wall, however, the Democrats haven't agreed to the deal instead have agreed to just over $1 billion deal which includes several border security measures. A number of departments have been hit as a result of the shutdown including the crucial homeland security, transport and the State Department. The president has stood firm in the past month demanding the full amount from the Democrats leading to a standoff, in a tweet Trump said: "If we create a wall or barrier which prevents criminals and drugs from flowing into our Country, crime will go down by record numbers!" Never seen @senatemajldr and Republicans so united on an issue as they are on the Humanitarian Crisis & Security on our Southern Border. If we create a Wall or Barrier which prevents Criminals and Drugs from flowing into our Country, Crime will go down by record numbers! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 22, 2019 × About 800,000 workers have been furloughed or working without pay even as several national parks, museums and some airport security checkpoints have been closed. In a tweet on Monday, Admiral Karl Schultz said: "Our USCG members sail across the world to protect US national interests while their loved ones cope with financial challenges & no pay at home." Today, the 418-foot @USCG Cutter Bertholf departed for a multi-month deployment in support of a @DeptofDefense Combatant Commander. Our #USCG members sail across the world to protect U.S. national interests while their loved ones cope w/ financial challenges & no pay at home. pic.twitter.com/GtSo1GTUnp — Admiral Karl Schultz (@ComdtUSCG) January 21, 2019 × As the logjam continued, The New York Times reported that Democrats had added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure.

Without a wall our country can never have national security, says Trump as government shutdown enters second month

The United States on Tuesday enters <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/government-shutdown-taking-larger-than-expected-toll-on-us-economy-190559">the second month of a partial government shutdown</a> over a lack of congressional funding, with no quick end in sight to the historic crisis weighing on the nation's economy and morale.

Since December 22, a quarter of the government has been paralyzed because of an impasse between opposition Democrats in Congress and the White House over funding for a wall to block illegal immigration at the border with Mexico.

President Donald Trump refuses to endorse a budget that does not contain $5.7 billion to build the barrier, the foundational promise of his 2016 election campaign.

Democrats oppose the wall, calling it "immoral," costly and ineffective. They want the government reopened before any discussion of the matter.

On Saturday, the Republican president made a new proposal which he said aimed to break the logjam. It offered to extend temporary protection to about a million immigrants facing expulsion, in return for the $5.7 billion he wants.&nbsp;

Although it was rejected by Democrats -- and even by some anti-immigrant voices -- the offer could serve as a basis for new discussions.

Visible impact 
The shutdown directly affects 0.5 percent of the labor force but has started to indirectly hit the morale of more than half of consumers, according to a survey by the University of Michigan.

Experts say it is also pressuring the world's largest economy, against the backdrop of already slowing global growth.

In the most sensitive government agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, Transport and the State Department, the number of affected employees has been kept to a minimum.

Elsewhere, the impact is clear.

National Parks no longer have security guards, numerous museums are shut, and some airport security checkpoints have been closed.

About 800,000 federal workers, from FBI agents to scientists and some food inspectors, are furloughed or working without pay while trying to meet their routine financial obligations.

US Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Karl Schultz wrote in a Twitter post on Monday that "Our #USCG members sail across the world to protect U.S. national interests while their loved ones cope w/ financial challenges &amp; no pay at home."

The longest ever 
An economist for the Internal Revenue Service in New York, Carol Lopilato, 59, has been effectively unemployed since December 23.

With the IRS since 1987, she was lived through other shutdowns and said: "I never thought it would go on this long -- never."

Lopilato told AFP that she is "lucky in a sense" because so far she has not faced financial difficulty.

But "the longer it lasts, the more anxiety there is."

She and others will eventually get backpay but more than one million contractors for the government don't even have that to hope for.

"I'm about to lose my Medicaid, my car insurance" and driver's license, said Yvette Hicks, 40, a contractor with the Smithsonian museum complex.

The single mother of two added: "Right now, this shutdown is really destroying me and my family."

Hotels and bars have stepped in to offer free rooms and complementary snacks. There have been fund collections, and food banks -- which normally serve the most down-and-out -- have opened up their services.

'Unacceptable' 
The longest shutdown in US history is also beginning to have a political price.&nbsp;

A majority of Americans hold the Republicans and the White House responsible, according to several polls.

The political cost would have been even greater if Trump had followed through on threats to declare a national emergency in order to build his wall. Faced with likely court challenges, he backed off.

With his offer on Saturday, Trump held out protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants: 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring.

But House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the top Democrat in the House of Representatives, refused this "compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people's lives."

Trump, at the same time, alienated the fringe of his electorate opposed to what they saw as tantamount to an amnesty for the undocumented migrants.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell plans to submit Trump's proposal for a vote this week. He will have to convince several Democrats of its merit in order to pass the text which, in any case, has little chance of being endorsed by the House.

For the Republicans, the Senate vote should at least allow a resumption of discussions, and the text can be amended.&nbsp;

But according to a senior House Democrat, James Clyburn, it is essential to first reopen the government because "these negotiations could take three or four weeks." 
&nbsp;

The United States on Tuesday enters the second month of a partial government shutdown over a lack of congressional funding, with no quick end in sight to the historic crisis weighing on the nation's economy and morale.

The United States on Tuesday enters the second month of a partial government shutdown over a lack of congressional funding, with no quick end in sight to the historic crisis weighing on the nation's economy and morale. Since December 22, a quarter of the government has been paralyzed because of an impasse between opposition Democrats in Congress and the White House over funding for a wall to block illegal immigration at the border with Mexico. President Donald Trump refuses to endorse a budget that does not contain $5.7 billion to build the barrier, the foundational promise of his 2016 election campaign. Democrats oppose the wall, calling it "immoral," costly and ineffective. They want the government reopened before any discussion of the matter. On Saturday, the Republican president made a new proposal which he said aimed to break the logjam. It offered to extend temporary protection to about a million immigrants facing expulsion, in return for the $5.7 billion he wants. Although it was rejected by Democrats -- and even by some anti-immigrant voices -- the offer could serve as a basis for new discussions. Visible impact The shutdown directly affects 0.5 percent of the labor force but has started to indirectly hit the morale of more than half of consumers, according to a survey by the University of Michigan. Experts say it is also pressuring the world's largest economy, against the backdrop of already slowing global growth. In the most sensitive government agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, Transport and the State Department, the number of affected employees has been kept to a minimum. Elsewhere, the impact is clear. National Parks no longer have security guards, numerous museums are shut, and some airport security checkpoints have been closed. About 800,000 federal workers, from FBI agents to scientists and some food inspectors, are furloughed or working without pay while trying to meet their routine financial obligations. US Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Karl Schultz wrote in a Twitter post on Monday that "Our #USCG members sail across the world to protect U.S. national interests while their loved ones cope w/ financial challenges & no pay at home." The longest ever An economist for the Internal Revenue Service in New York, Carol Lopilato, 59, has been effectively unemployed since December 23. With the IRS since 1987, she was lived through other shutdowns and said: "I never thought it would go on this long -- never." Lopilato told AFP that she is "lucky in a sense" because so far she has not faced financial difficulty. But "the longer it lasts, the more anxiety there is." She and others will eventually get backpay but more than one million contractors for the government don't even have that to hope for. "I'm about to lose my Medicaid, my car insurance" and driver's license, said Yvette Hicks, 40, a contractor with the Smithsonian museum complex. The single mother of two added: "Right now, this shutdown is really destroying me and my family." Hotels and bars have stepped in to offer free rooms and complementary snacks. There have been fund collections, and food banks -- which normally serve the most down-and-out -- have opened up their services. 'Unacceptable' The longest shutdown in US history is also beginning to have a political price. A majority of Americans hold the Republicans and the White House responsible, according to several polls. The political cost would have been even greater if Trump had followed through on threats to declare a national emergency in order to build his wall. Faced with likely court challenges, he backed off. With his offer on Saturday, Trump held out protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants: 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring. But House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the top Democrat in the House of Representatives, refused this "compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people's lives." Trump, at the same time, alienated the fringe of his electorate opposed to what they saw as tantamount to an amnesty for the undocumented migrants. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell plans to submit Trump's proposal for a vote this week. He will have to convince several Democrats of its merit in order to pass the text which, in any case, has little chance of being endorsed by the House. For the Republicans, the Senate vote should at least allow a resumption of discussions, and the text can be amended. But according to a senior House Democrat, James Clyburn, it is essential to first reopen the government because "these negotiations could take three or four weeks."

US govt shutdown enters 2nd month Tuesday, no quick end in sight yet

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">border</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509"> wall, Democrats say no</a>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning'</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning".

Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans.

Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">Those stopped from looting public money are forming '</a><a class="gr-progress" href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">mahagathbandhan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">': PM Modi</a>

On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-fuel-pipeline-blast-death-toll-rises-to-73-191521">Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73</a>

At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast.

Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">seatbelt</a>

Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash.

Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle.

The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on. UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning' British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning". Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans. Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday. Those stopped from looting public money are forming 'mahagathbandhan': PM Modi On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money. Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73 At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast. Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years. Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without seatbelt Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash. Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle. The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-offer-shutdown-ending-immigration-deal-still-wants-wall-money-source-191508">temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation</a> if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

Trump attempted to seize the initiative in ending the 29-day partial shutdown, a funding freeze that has left many important government departments relying on unpaid or highly reduced staff.

His bargain, announced in a televised White House address, held out the carrot of protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants.

These include 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring, Trump said.

The president said these concessions would "build the trust and goodwill necessary to begin real immigration reform."

In return, Trump demanded the $5.7 billion he says is needed to extend fences on the border with Mexico, something the opposition Democrats have repeatedly refused to authorize. That has prompted the president to retaliate with the government shutdown, which he triggered by not signing off on funding to swaths of departments.

The president also called for $800 million in "urgent humanitarian assistance" and $805 million for drug detection technology to help secure US ports of entry.

"I'm here today to break the logjam and provide Congress with a path forward to end the government shutdown and solve the crisis on the southern border," Trump said in his address.

Trump describes the US-Mexico border -- for decades a magnet for migrants and asylum seekers, as well as a major drug smuggling route -- as overwhelmed, posing a threat to US national security.

Democrats, who accuse Trump of using his illegal immigration crackdown to score political points with his right-wing base, spurned the latest negotiating offer as soon as it was leaked in the media prior to the speech.

"His proposal is a compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people’s lives," said Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the House of Representatives and the face of Democratic opposition to Trump. "They are a non-starter."

And Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the US Senate, noted that Trump himself had scrapped previously existing protection for the immigrants whom he is now offering to shield.

"Offering some protections back in exchange for the wall is not a compromise but more hostage taking," Schumer tweeted.

Getting personal 
Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell meanwhile hailed Trump's proposal as a "bold solution to reopen the government, secure the border, and take bipartisan steps toward addressing current immigration issues," saying he planned to bring it to a vote.

Trump's speech was the latest sign that both sides may slowly be grasping for a way out of an impasse that has turned into a test of brute political strength.

The New York Times reported that Democrats have added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure.

The Times said roughly half the additional $1 billion being offered by Democrats would go to improve infrastructure at ports of entry, and the other half would fund 75 new immigration judges -- but with no new money for a wall.&nbsp;

While each side waits for the other to blink, some 800,000 federal employees have been caught up in the shutdown, waiting for paychecks. They include members of the Coast Guard, FBI and airport security staff.

All are expected to receive back wages once the shutdown ends, but in the meantime, many have had difficulty paying bills or even feeding their families.

The partial government shutdown -- a disruptive political weapon almost unique to the American system -- began on December 22 and is now the longest ever.

While polls show more Americans blame Trump and the Republicans than the Democrats, both sides are feeling pressure, as disgust rises across the country with the paralyzed political leadership in Washington.

Adding to the sense of chaos, the dispute has turned deeply personal, with Trump and Pelosi exchanging what to many seem like almost playground-level jibes.

After Pelosi suggested shelving Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress -- one of the key set-piece political appearances of the year -- the president abruptly revoked her right to use an air force plane for a trip to Afghanistan. Both cited difficulties caused by the shutdown as justification.

On Saturday, Trump said Pelosi "is under total control of the radical left."

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on. Trump attempted to seize the initiative in ending the 29-day partial shutdown, a funding freeze that has left many important government departments relying on unpaid or highly reduced staff. His bargain, announced in a televised White House address, held out the carrot of protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants. These include 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring, Trump said. The president said these concessions would "build the trust and goodwill necessary to begin real immigration reform." In return, Trump demanded the $5.7 billion he says is needed to extend fences on the border with Mexico, something the opposition Democrats have repeatedly refused to authorize. That has prompted the president to retaliate with the government shutdown, which he triggered by not signing off on funding to swaths of departments. The president also called for $800 million in "urgent humanitarian assistance" and $805 million for drug detection technology to help secure US ports of entry. "I'm here today to break the logjam and provide Congress with a path forward to end the government shutdown and solve the crisis on the southern border," Trump said in his address. Trump describes the US-Mexico border -- for decades a magnet for migrants and asylum seekers, as well as a major drug smuggling route -- as overwhelmed, posing a threat to US national security. Democrats, who accuse Trump of using his illegal immigration crackdown to score political points with his right-wing base, spurned the latest negotiating offer as soon as it was leaked in the media prior to the speech. "His proposal is a compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people’s lives," said Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the House of Representatives and the face of Democratic opposition to Trump. "They are a non-starter." And Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the US Senate, noted that Trump himself had scrapped previously existing protection for the immigrants whom he is now offering to shield. "Offering some protections back in exchange for the wall is not a compromise but more hostage taking," Schumer tweeted. Getting personal Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell meanwhile hailed Trump's proposal as a "bold solution to reopen the government, secure the border, and take bipartisan steps toward addressing current immigration issues," saying he planned to bring it to a vote. Trump's speech was the latest sign that both sides may slowly be grasping for a way out of an impasse that has turned into a test of brute political strength. The New York Times reported that Democrats have added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure. The Times said roughly half the additional $1 billion being offered by Democrats would go to improve infrastructure at ports of entry, and the other half would fund 75 new immigration judges -- but with no new money for a wall. While each side waits for the other to blink, some 800,000 federal employees have been caught up in the shutdown, waiting for paychecks. They include members of the Coast Guard, FBI and airport security staff. All are expected to receive back wages once the shutdown ends, but in the meantime, many have had difficulty paying bills or even feeding their families. The partial government shutdown -- a disruptive political weapon almost unique to the American system -- began on December 22 and is now the longest ever. While polls show more Americans blame Trump and the Republicans than the Democrats, both sides are feeling pressure, as disgust rises across the country with the paralyzed political leadership in Washington. Adding to the sense of chaos, the dispute has turned deeply personal, with Trump and Pelosi exchanging what to many seem like almost playground-level jibes. After Pelosi suggested shelving Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress -- one of the key set-piece political appearances of the year -- the president abruptly revoked her right to use an air force plane for a trip to Afghanistan. Both cited difficulties caused by the shutdown as justification. On Saturday, Trump said Pelosi "is under total control of the radical left."

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no

US House Speaker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blocks-pelosi-trip-as-tensions-mount-over-government-shutdown-191083">Nancy Pelosi</a> on Friday accused President Donald Trump of putting American troops and civilians working in Afghanistan in danger by publicising a planned congressional trip to the war-torn country, as tensions between the leaders spiked on the 28th day of a partial government shutdown.

Trump later on Friday signalled he would turn his attention from the fight over congressional travel back to the budget standoff that has left hundreds of thousands of federal workers without paychecks, posting on Twitter that he would make a "major announcement" on Saturday at 3 pm EST (2000 GMT) on the "humanitarian crisis" on the country's southern border and on the partial shutdown.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I will be making a major announcement concerning the Humanitarian Crisis on our Southern Border, and the Shutdown, tomorrow afternoon at 3 P.M., live from the <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhiteHouse</a>.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1086395559504764930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The White House rejected Pelosi's charge of endangering troops and civilians.

The Republican Trump administration, which on Thursday had blocked Democrat Pelosi from making the trip to Afghanistan, on Friday slapped a blanket ban on all US congressional travel on government-owned or operated aircraft while the shutdown continues.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said the administration was just trying to keep Pelosi in town so that negotiations could take place to try to end the partial shutdown, at four weeks already the longest in US history.

"If she did (leave the country), it would all but guarantee the fact that the negotiations couldn't take place over the weekend and federal workers - 800,000 federal workers - wouldn't receive their paychecks because she wasn't here to help make a deal," Sanders told reporters. She added that it was "outrageous" that Pelosi would accuse Trump "of putting any life in jeopardy."

But Democrats said no negotiations were going on. "We have received no requests to meet from the White House," Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said.

Trump on Thursday had blocked Pelosi from using a military plane for a congressional trip with other high-ranking Democrats to NATO headquarters in Brussels and then Afghanistan.

Pelosi's office then was prepared to fly commercially - an idea Trump himself raised - but on Friday morning announced the trip was being postponed because the administration had leaked details that could endanger the trip or the troops the speaker had planned to visit. A White House official denied this.

"We had a report from Afghanistan ... that the president outing our trip had made the scene on the ground much more dangerous because it was just a signal to the bad actors that we're coming," Pelosi told reporters in the Capitol.

"You never give advance notice of going into a battle area. You just never do," she said. "Perhaps the president's inexperience did not have him understand that protocol. The people around him should have known that because that's very dangerous.”

A White House official, speaking earlier on condition of anonymity, denied the administration leaked Pelosi's travel plans, adding, "When the speaker of the House and about 20 others from Capitol Hill decide to book their own commercial flights to Afghanistan, the world is going to find out."

The White House on Friday escalated the argument with lawmakers, with the Office of Management and Budget announcing that Congress was effectively grounded unless lawmakers could get White House approval for trips or pay for them themselves.

"Under no circumstances during a government shutdown will any government-owned, rented, leased, or chartered aircraft support any Congressional delegation, without the express written approval of the White House Chief of Staff," a memo said.

"Nor will any funds appropriated to the Executive Branch be used for any Congressional delegation travel expenses, without his express written approval," the memo added.

That ultimatum, which congressional Democrats have rejected, has prevented Congress from approving legislation to restore funding to about a quarter of the federal government, which closed down partially on December 22 when several agencies' funds expired for reasons unrelated to the border.

Any serious debate about immigration policy has deteriorated into a test of political wills. Pelosi earlier in the week suggested to Trump that he delay the annual State of the Union address until after the government reopens. While he did not respond directly to Pelosi's suggestion, on Thursday he denied her delegation's use of a military aircraft to go to Brussels and Afghanistan.

Asked Friday whether Trump's address would occur in the House chamber on January 29 as scheduled, Sanders said: "We'll certainly keep you posted on that front."

The partial shutdown seemed certain to drag well into next week, meaning 800,000 federal workers nationwide would continue to go unpaid and some government functions would remain impaired.

The Democratic-led House of Representatives has left town for a three-day weekend, returning late on Tuesday. The Senate was expected to reconvene on Saturday.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Friday accused President Donald Trump of putting American troops and civilians working in Afghanistan in danger by publicising a planned congressional trip to the war-torn country, as tensions between the leaders spiked on the 28th day of a partial government shutdown.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Friday accused President Donald Trump of putting American troops and civilians working in Afghanistan in danger by publicising a planned congressional trip to the war-torn country, as tensions between the leaders spiked on the 28th day of a partial government shutdown. Trump later on Friday signalled he would turn his attention from the fight over congressional travel back to the budget standoff that has left hundreds of thousands of federal workers without paychecks, posting on Twitter that he would make a "major announcement" on Saturday at 3 pm EST (2000 GMT) on the "humanitarian crisis" on the country's southern border and on the partial shutdown. I will be making a major announcement concerning the Humanitarian Crisis on our Southern Border, and the Shutdown, tomorrow afternoon at 3 P.M., live from the @WhiteHouse. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2019 × The White House rejected Pelosi's charge of endangering troops and civilians. The Republican Trump administration, which on Thursday had blocked Democrat Pelosi from making the trip to Afghanistan, on Friday slapped a blanket ban on all US congressional travel on government-owned or operated aircraft while the shutdown continues. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said the administration was just trying to keep Pelosi in town so that negotiations could take place to try to end the partial shutdown, at four weeks already the longest in US history. "If she did (leave the country), it would all but guarantee the fact that the negotiations couldn't take place over the weekend and federal workers - 800,000 federal workers - wouldn't receive their paychecks because she wasn't here to help make a deal," Sanders told reporters. She added that it was "outrageous" that Pelosi would accuse Trump "of putting any life in jeopardy." But Democrats said no negotiations were going on. "We have received no requests to meet from the White House," Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said. Trump on Thursday had blocked Pelosi from using a military plane for a congressional trip with other high-ranking Democrats to NATO headquarters in Brussels and then Afghanistan. Pelosi's office then was prepared to fly commercially - an idea Trump himself raised - but on Friday morning announced the trip was being postponed because the administration had leaked details that could endanger the trip or the troops the speaker had planned to visit. A White House official denied this. "We had a report from Afghanistan ... that the president outing our trip had made the scene on the ground much more dangerous because it was just a signal to the bad actors that we're coming," Pelosi told reporters in the Capitol. "You never give advance notice of going into a battle area. You just never do," she said. "Perhaps the president's inexperience did not have him understand that protocol. The people around him should have known that because that's very dangerous.” A White House official, speaking earlier on condition of anonymity, denied the administration leaked Pelosi's travel plans, adding, "When the speaker of the House and about 20 others from Capitol Hill decide to book their own commercial flights to Afghanistan, the world is going to find out." The White House on Friday escalated the argument with lawmakers, with the Office of Management and Budget announcing that Congress was effectively grounded unless lawmakers could get White House approval for trips or pay for them themselves. "Under no circumstances during a government shutdown will any government-owned, rented, leased, or chartered aircraft support any Congressional delegation, without the express written approval of the White House Chief of Staff," a memo said. "Nor will any funds appropriated to the Executive Branch be used for any Congressional delegation travel expenses, without his express written approval," the memo added. That ultimatum, which congressional Democrats have rejected, has prevented Congress from approving legislation to restore funding to about a quarter of the federal government, which closed down partially on December 22 when several agencies' funds expired for reasons unrelated to the border. Any serious debate about immigration policy has deteriorated into a test of political wills. Pelosi earlier in the week suggested to Trump that he delay the annual State of the Union address until after the government reopens. While he did not respond directly to Pelosi's suggestion, on Thursday he denied her delegation's use of a military aircraft to go to Brussels and Afghanistan. Asked Friday whether Trump's address would occur in the House chamber on January 29 as scheduled, Sanders said: "We'll certainly keep you posted on that front." The partial shutdown seemed certain to drag well into next week, meaning 800,000 federal workers nationwide would continue to go unpaid and some government functions would remain impaired. The Democratic-led House of Representatives has left town for a three-day weekend, returning late on Tuesday. The Senate was expected to reconvene on Saturday.

House Speaker Pelosi accuses Trump of endangering US troops, lawmakers

The shutdown of the US government -- now in its record 28th day -- is becoming a drag on economic growth, the president of the New York Federal Reserve Bank said Friday.

John Williams, who also holds the influential vice chairmanship of the Federal Reserve's policy committee, reportedly told a gathering the government work stoppage could shave as much as a full percentage point off GDP growth in the first quarter.

In an address delivered to a New Jersey banking association, Williams said the shutdown was among "emerging headwinds to growth," according to his prepared remarks.

He went on to estimate that the shutdown would reduce GDP growth by half a percentage point, "maybe even a percentage point if it continues," but said that a rebound would come when it ends, according to Bloomberg.

Economists say that beyond lost pay for federal workers, the shutdown is impeding economic activity in systemic ways, interrupting the issuance of permits, data collection, regulatory approvals, contract payment and the payment of aid and loans in various sectors such as agriculture.

The International Monetary Fund on Thursday warned that the shutdown's effect will worsen as it drags on.

Different estimates have put the losses at between 0.05 and 0.1 percentage point for each week the shutdown persists.

Last month, the Federal Reserve forecast 2.3 per cent growth for 2019, markedly slower than 2018.

The shutdown of the US government -- now in its record 28th day -- is becoming a drag on economic growth, the president of the New York Federal Reserve Bank said Friday.

The shutdown of the US government -- now in its record 28th day -- is becoming a drag on economic growth, the president of the New York Federal Reserve Bank said Friday. John Williams, who also holds the influential vice chairmanship of the Federal Reserve's policy committee, reportedly told a gathering the government work stoppage could shave as much as a full percentage point off GDP growth in the first quarter. In an address delivered to a New Jersey banking association, Williams said the shutdown was among "emerging headwinds to growth," according to his prepared remarks. He went on to estimate that the shutdown would reduce GDP growth by half a percentage point, "maybe even a percentage point if it continues," but said that a rebound would come when it ends, according to Bloomberg. Economists say that beyond lost pay for federal workers, the shutdown is impeding economic activity in systemic ways, interrupting the issuance of permits, data collection, regulatory approvals, contract payment and the payment of aid and loans in various sectors such as agriculture. The International Monetary Fund on Thursday warned that the shutdown's effect will worsen as it drags on. Different estimates have put the losses at between 0.05 and 0.1 percentage point for each week the shutdown persists. Last month, the Federal Reserve forecast 2.3 per cent growth for 2019, markedly slower than 2018.

US shutdown could stunt economic growth: New York Federal Reserve chief

President Donald Trump on Thursday cancelled the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blocks-pelosi-trip-as-tensions-mount-over-government-shutdown-191083"> US delegation's trip to the annual</a> international conference at Davos, saying the officials were needed in Washington to tackle the shutdown of the federal government.

"Out of consideration for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-shutdown-starting-to-hurt-trumps-financial-deregulation-agenda-191010">800,000 great American workers</a> not receiving pay and to ensure his team can assist as needed, President Trump has canceled his delegation's trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland," said a statement from Press Secretary Sarah Sanders.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin had been due to head the five-strong delegation that also included Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, US trade representative Robert Lighthizer and assistant to the president Chris Liddell.

The decision to scrap the Davos trip came after Trump hit his chief Democratic opponent Nancy Pelosi with a last-minute cancellation of her plan to take an air force plane to Afghanistan, citing the four-week-old shutdown as a motive.

Some 800,000 federal employees and many more government contractors are affected by the partial shutdown, triggered by Trump's refusal to sign off on funding for a host of departments.

This was in retaliation for the refusal of Democrats, who control the lower house of Congress, to approve his plans for a US-Mexico border wall.

Trump last week cancelled his own participation in Davos, also citing the row over his proposed wall. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump on Thursday cancelled the US delegation's trip to the annual international conference at Davos, saying the officials were needed in Washington to tackle the shutdown of the federal government.

President Donald Trump on Thursday cancelled the US delegation's trip to the annual international conference at Davos, saying the officials were needed in Washington to tackle the shutdown of the federal government. "Out of consideration for the 800,000 great American workers not receiving pay and to ensure his team can assist as needed, President Trump has canceled his delegation's trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland," said a statement from Press Secretary Sarah Sanders. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin had been due to head the five-strong delegation that also included Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, US trade representative Robert Lighthizer and assistant to the president Chris Liddell. The decision to scrap the Davos trip came after Trump hit his chief Democratic opponent Nancy Pelosi with a last-minute cancellation of her plan to take an air force plane to Afghanistan, citing the four-week-old shutdown as a motive. Some 800,000 federal employees and many more government contractors are affected by the partial shutdown, triggered by Trump's refusal to sign off on funding for a host of departments. This was in retaliation for the refusal of Democrats, who control the lower house of Congress, to approve his plans for a US-Mexico border wall. Trump last week cancelled his own participation in Davos, also citing the row over his proposed wall.

Trump cancels US delegation's trip to Davos amid shutdown

US shutdown turns Washington into ghost town during quiet travel season

The longest<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-hopes-for-imminent-end-to-us-government-shutdown-190082&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj_uPef5_HfAhULq48KHQVpCXoQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0sv2mLJznc4v3IkEgQluTW"> US government shutdown</a> in history reached its 25th day on Tuesday, with most of the 800,000 employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay having missed their first paychecks last week.

The White House and congressional Democrats remain divided over Republican <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-stops-short-of-emergency-declaration-in-border-wall-fight-189699&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwijhu2-5_HfAhUPSY8KHa9TARsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RncalnvrSrpTlEI4KO3sE">President Donald Trump</a>'s demand for money for a border wall.

The shutdown, which began on December 22, is the 19th since the mid-1970s, although most have been brief. A 1995-1996 shutdown over a funding battle between Democratic President Bill Clinton and Republican House of Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrich lasted 21 days. The current one has not affected three-quarters of the government, including the Department of Defense and the Postal Service, which have secure funding.&nbsp;

But some 800,000 employees from the departments of Homeland Security and Transportation, among others, have been furloughed or are working without pay. Private contractors working for many government agencies are also without pay and private companies that rely on business from federal workers or other consumers - such as national park visitors - are affected across the country.&nbsp;

The following is what is happening around the federal government:

INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE&nbsp;

Nearly 70,000 IRS employees, or about 88 per cent of the workforce, have been furloughed, raising concerns about American taxpayer filings and refunds and the ability of the agency to manage government revenues ahead of the April 15 income tax filing deadline.&nbsp;

The US Internal Revenue Service said on Tuesday it intended to bring back more than 46,000 furloughed workers to process annual tax returns and refunds and other tasks.

HOMELAND SECURITY

The department that oversees Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, the Coast Guard, and the Secret Service are affected.

Of 245,000 agency employees, nearly 213,000 have been deemed "essential," according to the department`s contingency plan, so they are working without pay until a funding bill is passed.&nbsp;

More than 50,000 TSA officers are working without pay, but Democratic lawmakers have expressed concern about some transportation employees failing to show up for work or calling in sick.&nbsp;

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD)

Most of the department's 7,500 employees are "non-essential" and only about 340 are working. Nearly 1,000 others may be called in for specific tasks, without pay.

The shutdown has left administration officials scrambling to prevent the eviction of thousands of people covered by a HUD program that expired on January 1 and now cannot be renewed, according to the Washington Post. 
&nbsp; 
Public housing authorities and Native American tribal housing entities are not part of the federal government and so are not required to shut down. But the federal government provides some of their funding, so some have reduced services or changed operating hours.

HUD, which oversees some housing loan and low-income housing payment programs, warned that a protracted shutdown could result in a decline in home sales.&nbsp;

INTERIOR

The Interior Department intends to temporarily recall some furloughed workers to prepare an upcoming Gulf of Mexico oil lease sale, using funds left over from last year, according to a department document.

The National Park Service, under the umbrella of the Interior Department, is operating with a skeleton staff. Under its contingency plan, some parks may be accessible, with others closed completely. The park service is providing no visitor services such as restrooms, facility and road maintenance and trash collection.

&nbsp;Some volunteers have worked to clean up sites, according to media reports, and some states and other localities have also pitched in funding to keep parks operating. There has been damage to fragile lands by unmonitored visitors. Some campgrounds have closed because of sanitation issues.

The parks are losing about $400,000 a day in fees because no rangers are staffing the entrances, according to Senate appropriators. The park service has authorized using previously collected entrance fees to bring in additional staff to clean up trash and other tasks in a move some critics have said are illegal, the Washington Post reported.&nbsp;

The Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo in Washington, which receive US government funding, are also closed.

COMMERCE DEPARTMENT

The Department of Commerce`s Bureau of Economic Analysis and Census Bureau is not publishing economic data, including figures on a gross domestic product, inflation, personal income, spending, trade, and new home sales, during the shutdown.

OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT

The agency that oversees the federal workforce has given advice to workers on dealing with landlords, mortgage lenders and other creditors, including sample letters explaining severe income loss because of the lack of federal funding. Some federal workers are applying for unemployment benefits, according to media reports.&nbsp;

JUDICIARY

The US court system said on Tuesday it could operate until January 25 and that most proceedings would continue as scheduled. Cases involving furloughed lawyers from the executive branch of government may be delayed. Initially, the courts had estimated funding would be exhausted on January 18, but "aggressive efforts to reduce expenditures" bought extra time.

Immigration judges are among those furloughed, leading to thousands of long-delayed deportation cases being rescheduled.

HEALTH

The Food and Drug Administration and other agencies under the Department of Health and Human Services are partially affected by the shutdown. Some food and drug inspections are on hold, but the FDA says it is still able to respond to emergencies, such as foodborne illness outbreaks. The Indian Health Service is not able to provide most of its funds to Tribes and Urban Indian Health programs. Some scientific research projects also cannot continue in full.&nbsp;

AGRICULTURE

The Department of Agriculture has said that US farmers could have more time to apply for aid aimed at mitigating any harm during ongoing trade disputes with China, among others, adding that farmers who had already applied would continue to receive payments.

USDA has also delayed several key reports on major domestic and world crops that were due to be released on January 11.&nbsp;

Funding for food aid for low-income Americans, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP, will continue in February, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said last week, but he warned the outlook for March was uncertain if there was no end to the shutdown.

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION&nbsp;

The FCC, which regulates radio and television broadcast and cable systems, has suspended most operations. Work for "the protection of life and property" will continue as well operations at the agency`s Office of Inspector General, the FCC`s internal watchdog.&nbsp;

TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT

Of its 55,000 employees, 20,400 have been put on leave. That excludes most of the Federal Aviation Administration, where 24,200 are working and the Federal Highway Administration, where all 2,700 employees are funded through other sources.

The FAA said on Tuesday it was calling back 1,700 aviation safety inspectors "to perform duties to ensure continuous operational safety of the entire national airspace."

Air traffic control, hazardous material safety inspections and accident investigations continue, but some rule-making, inspections, and audits have been paused.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has furloughed nearly 60 per cent of its staff, halting auto safety investigations and new vehicle recall notices. The agency said it would recall furloughed employees if it "becomes aware of an imminent threat to the safety of human life."

Air traffic controllers and other aviation industry workers protested on the Capitol grounds last week.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

An estimated 1,100 of the office's 1,800 employees are on leave. That includes most of the Office of Management and Budget, which helps implement budget and policy goals.

NASA

Most employees at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are on furlough. The small percentage who remain are working without pay. Work on any satellite mission that has not yet launched will be suspended until the agency receives funding, according to its contingency plan.

The longest US government shutdown in history reached its 25th day on Tuesday, with most of the 800,000 employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay having missed their first paychecks last week.

The longest US government shutdown in history reached its 25th day on Tuesday, with most of the 800,000 employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay having missed their first paychecks last week. The White House and congressional Democrats remain divided over Republican President Donald Trump's demand for money for a border wall. The shutdown, which began on December 22, is the 19th since the mid-1970s, although most have been brief. A 1995-1996 shutdown over a funding battle between Democratic President Bill Clinton and Republican House of Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrich lasted 21 days. The current one has not affected three-quarters of the government, including the Department of Defense and the Postal Service, which have secure funding. But some 800,000 employees from the departments of Homeland Security and Transportation, among others, have been furloughed or are working without pay. Private contractors working for many government agencies are also without pay and private companies that rely on business from federal workers or other consumers - such as national park visitors - are affected across the country. The following is what is happening around the federal government: INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE Nearly 70,000 IRS employees, or about 88 per cent of the workforce, have been furloughed, raising concerns about American taxpayer filings and refunds and the ability of the agency to manage government revenues ahead of the April 15 income tax filing deadline. The US Internal Revenue Service said on Tuesday it intended to bring back more than 46,000 furloughed workers to process annual tax returns and refunds and other tasks. HOMELAND SECURITY The department that oversees Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, the Coast Guard, and the Secret Service are affected. Of 245,000 agency employees, nearly 213,000 have been deemed "essential," according to the department`s contingency plan, so they are working without pay until a funding bill is passed. More than 50,000 TSA officers are working without pay, but Democratic lawmakers have expressed concern about some transportation employees failing to show up for work or calling in sick. HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD) Most of the department's 7,500 employees are "non-essential" and only about 340 are working. Nearly 1,000 others may be called in for specific tasks, without pay. The shutdown has left administration officials scrambling to prevent the eviction of thousands of people covered by a HUD program that expired on January 1 and now cannot be renewed, according to the Washington Post. Public housing authorities and Native American tribal housing entities are not part of the federal government and so are not required to shut down. But the federal government provides some of their funding, so some have reduced services or changed operating hours. HUD, which oversees some housing loan and low-income housing payment programs, warned that a protracted shutdown could result in a decline in home sales. INTERIOR The Interior Department intends to temporarily recall some furloughed workers to prepare an upcoming Gulf of Mexico oil lease sale, using funds left over from last year, according to a department document. The National Park Service, under the umbrella of the Interior Department, is operating with a skeleton staff. Under its contingency plan, some parks may be accessible, with others closed completely. The park service is providing no visitor services such as restrooms, facility and road maintenance and trash collection. Some volunteers have worked to clean up sites, according to media reports, and some states and other localities have also pitched in funding to keep parks operating. There has been damage to fragile lands by unmonitored visitors. Some campgrounds have closed because of sanitation issues. The parks are losing about $400,000 a day in fees because no rangers are staffing the entrances, according to Senate appropriators. The park service has authorized using previously collected entrance fees to bring in additional staff to clean up trash and other tasks in a move some critics have said are illegal, the Washington Post reported. The Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo in Washington, which receive US government funding, are also closed. COMMERCE DEPARTMENT The Department of Commerce`s Bureau of Economic Analysis and Census Bureau is not publishing economic data, including figures on a gross domestic product, inflation, personal income, spending, trade, and new home sales, during the shutdown. OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT The agency that oversees the federal workforce has given advice to workers on dealing with landlords, mortgage lenders and other creditors, including sample letters explaining severe income loss because of the lack of federal funding. Some federal workers are applying for unemployment benefits, according to media reports. JUDICIARY The US court system said on Tuesday it could operate until January 25 and that most proceedings would continue as scheduled. Cases involving furloughed lawyers from the executive branch of government may be delayed. Initially, the courts had estimated funding would be exhausted on January 18, but "aggressive efforts to reduce expenditures" bought extra time. Immigration judges are among those furloughed, leading to thousands of long-delayed deportation cases being rescheduled. HEALTH The Food and Drug Administration and other agencies under the Department of Health and Human Services are partially affected by the shutdown. Some food and drug inspections are on hold, but the FDA says it is still able to respond to emergencies, such as foodborne illness outbreaks. The Indian Health Service is not able to provide most of its funds to Tribes and Urban Indian Health programs. Some scientific research projects also cannot continue in full. AGRICULTURE The Department of Agriculture has said that US farmers could have more time to apply for aid aimed at mitigating any harm during ongoing trade disputes with China, among others, adding that farmers who had already applied would continue to receive payments. USDA has also delayed several key reports on major domestic and world crops that were due to be released on January 11. Funding for food aid for low-income Americans, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP, will continue in February, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said last week, but he warned the outlook for March was uncertain if there was no end to the shutdown. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION The FCC, which regulates radio and television broadcast and cable systems, has suspended most operations. Work for "the protection of life and property" will continue as well operations at the agency`s Office of Inspector General, the FCC`s internal watchdog. TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT Of its 55,000 employees, 20,400 have been put on leave. That excludes most of the Federal Aviation Administration, where 24,200 are working and the Federal Highway Administration, where all 2,700 employees are funded through other sources. The FAA said on Tuesday it was calling back 1,700 aviation safety inspectors "to perform duties to ensure continuous operational safety of the entire national airspace." Air traffic control, hazardous material safety inspections and accident investigations continue, but some rule-making, inspections, and audits have been paused. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has furloughed nearly 60 per cent of its staff, halting auto safety investigations and new vehicle recall notices. The agency said it would recall furloughed employees if it "becomes aware of an imminent threat to the safety of human life." Air traffic controllers and other aviation industry workers protested on the Capitol grounds last week. EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT An estimated 1,100 of the office's 1,800 employees are on leave. That includes most of the Office of Management and Budget, which helps implement budget and policy goals. NASA Most employees at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are on furlough. The small percentage who remain are working without pay. Work on any satellite mission that has not yet launched will be suspended until the agency receives funding, according to its contingency plan.

Impact on US government widens on 25th day of shutdown

US President Donald Trump laid out a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/top-republicans-oppose-border-emergency-as-shutdown-drags-on-190088">White House feast fit for a government </a>shutdown with silver platters heaped high with McDonald's quarter pounders and the red-and-white burger wrappers of Wendy's.

White House chefs normally would <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-shutdown-sends-economy-into-uncharted-waters-189942">serve much fancier fare underneath</a> the stern gaze of the portrait of Abraham Lincoln in the State Dining Room. But they are furloughed, staying home without paychecks as Trump fights with Congress over funding the federal government.

The White House said Trump himself sprang for what he pronounced to be "great American food" for the visiting Clemson Tigers, winners of the US&nbsp;college football championship.

"We have pizzas, we have 300 hamburgers, many, many french fries, all of our favourite foods," Trump told reporters, as one White House worker still on the job lit tapered candles.

"I want to see what's here when we leave, because I don't think it's going to be much," Trump said, before the players, dressed in dapper suits, flooded the room and piled their plates high.

About a quarter of the federal government has been shut down for the past 24 days after Trump dug in on a campaign pledge to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico, demanding $5.7 billion from Congress for the project. Democrats have rejected his demand.&nbsp;

"So I had a choice. Do we have no food for you because we have a shutdown or do we give you some little quick salads that the first lady will make along with the second lady....they'll make some salads and I said you guys aren't into salads or do I go out, Lindsay Graham, Tim Scott (Senators from South Carolina) or do I send out for 1000 hamburgers," he said, adding, "Big Macs. So we actually did. Burger King, Wendy's and McDonalds, all American companies."

US President Donald Trump laid out a White House feast fit for a government shutdown with silver platters heaped high with McDonald's quarter pounders and the red-and-white burger wrappers of Wendy's.

US President Donald Trump laid out a White House feast fit for a government shutdown with silver platters heaped high with McDonald's quarter pounders and the red-and-white burger wrappers of Wendy's. White House chefs normally would serve much fancier fare underneath the stern gaze of the portrait of Abraham Lincoln in the State Dining Room. But they are furloughed, staying home without paychecks as Trump fights with Congress over funding the federal government. The White House said Trump himself sprang for what he pronounced to be "great American food" for the visiting Clemson Tigers, winners of the US college football championship. "We have pizzas, we have 300 hamburgers, many, many french fries, all of our favourite foods," Trump told reporters, as one White House worker still on the job lit tapered candles. "I want to see what's here when we leave, because I don't think it's going to be much," Trump said, before the players, dressed in dapper suits, flooded the room and piled their plates high. About a quarter of the federal government has been shut down for the past 24 days after Trump dug in on a campaign pledge to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico, demanding $5.7 billion from Congress for the project. Democrats have rejected his demand. "So I had a choice. Do we have no food for you because we have a shutdown or do we give you some little quick salads that the first lady will make along with the second lady....they'll make some salads and I said you guys aren't into salads or do I go out, Lindsay Graham, Tim Scott (Senators from South Carolina) or do I send out for 1000 hamburgers," he said, adding, "Big Macs. So we actually did. Burger King, Wendy's and McDonalds, all American companies."

Watch: As shutdown bites, Trump invites guests to feast on burgers, pizzas & french fries

The United States is extending until <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-entirely-close-us-mexico-border-unless-wall-demands-met-187046">September 30 the deployment of </a>active duty soldiers and Coast Guard members at the border with Mexico, officials said Monday.

As part of the move to extend the mission <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/military-will-build-mexico-border-wall-if-democrats-refuse-trump-183450">past the original January 31 deadline</a>, the Pentagon said it was "transitioning its support at the southwestern border from hardening ports of entry to mobile surveillance and detection, as well as concertina wire emplacement between ports of entry."

"DoD will continue to provide aviation support," the statement added, referring to the Department of Defense.

Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan approved the extension in response to a request from the Homeland Security Department, the Pentagon said in a statement. There are about 2,350 troops assigned to the border mission.

The impasse has paralysed Washington - its impact felt increasingly around the country - with the president refusing to sign off on budgets for swaths of government departments unrelated to the dispute.

As a result, 800,000 federal employees - including FBI agents, air traffic controllers and museum staff - received no paychecks on Friday.

Both Democrats and Republicans agree that the US-Mexican border presents challenges, but Trump has turned his single-minded push for more walls into a crusade.&nbsp;

He tweeted Sunday that "The building of the Wall on the Southern Border will bring down the crime rate throughout the entire Country!"&nbsp;

Some studies show that illegal immigrants commit fewer crimes than people born in the United States.

Only in recent days has Trump begun describing the problem as "humanitarian," referring in a tweet Saturday to "a massive Humanitarian Crisis at our Southern Border."

President Donald Trump has refused to back away from his demand that lawmakers approve funding to build a Mexico border wall.

Due to&nbsp;the US government shutdown, small business administration loans to help mom-and-pop businesses trying to invest, hire and grow have been delayed.

There are no government loans for seeds or cattle feed and none of the regular Agriculture Department data about crop yields and commodity prices that farmers depend on to plan for the coming year.

Permits from some oil and gas drilling - which feeds into GDP calculations - are delayed.

The United States is extending until September 30 the deployment of active duty soldiers and Coast Guard members at the border with Mexico, officials said Monday.

The United States is extending until September 30 the deployment of active duty soldiers and Coast Guard members at the border with Mexico, officials said Monday. As part of the move to extend the mission past the original January 31 deadline, the Pentagon said it was "transitioning its support at the southwestern border from hardening ports of entry to mobile surveillance and detection, as well as concertina wire emplacement between ports of entry." "DoD will continue to provide aviation support," the statement added, referring to the Department of Defense. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan approved the extension in response to a request from the Homeland Security Department, the Pentagon said in a statement. There are about 2,350 troops assigned to the border mission. The impasse has paralysed Washington - its impact felt increasingly around the country - with the president refusing to sign off on budgets for swaths of government departments unrelated to the dispute. As a result, 800,000 federal employees - including FBI agents, air traffic controllers and museum staff - received no paychecks on Friday. Both Democrats and Republicans agree that the US-Mexican border presents challenges, but Trump has turned his single-minded push for more walls into a crusade. He tweeted Sunday that "The building of the Wall on the Southern Border will bring down the crime rate throughout the entire Country!" Some studies show that illegal immigrants commit fewer crimes than people born in the United States. Only in recent days has Trump begun describing the problem as "humanitarian," referring in a tweet Saturday to "a massive Humanitarian Crisis at our Southern Border." President Donald Trump has refused to back away from his demand that lawmakers approve funding to build a Mexico border wall. Due to the US government shutdown, small business administration loans to help mom-and-pop businesses trying to invest, hire and grow have been delayed. There are no government loans for seeds or cattle feed and none of the regular Agriculture Department data about crop yields and commodity prices that farmers depend on to plan for the coming year. Permits from some oil and gas drilling - which feeds into GDP calculations - are delayed.

US troop deployment at Mexico border extended till September: Pentagon

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-turkey-of-economic-devastation-if-it-hits-kurds-190087">Will devastate Turkey economically if they hit Kurds: Trump</a>

President Donald Trump warned Turkey on Sunday of economic devastation if it attacks Kurdish forces in the wake of the&nbsp;US troop pullout from Syria, while also urging the Kurds not to "provoke" Ankara.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-rise-on-fifth-consecutive-day-petrol-crosses-rs-70-in-delhi-190095">Fuel prices continue to rise on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-rise-on-fifth-consecutive-day-petrol-crosses-rs-70-in-delhi-190095">fifth</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-rise-on-fifth-consecutive-day-petrol-crosses-rs-70-in-delhi-190095"> consecutive day, petrol crosses Rs 70 in Delhi</a>

Fuel prices continued to increase for the fifth consecutive day on Monday with prices of petrol crossing over Rs 70 in Delhi. While petrol witnessed an increase of 38 paise in Delhi and Mumbai, prices of diesel rose by 49 paise in Delhi and 52 paise in Mumbai.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-maria-sharapova-hands-harriet-dart-a-double-bagel-in-campaign-opener-190097">Australia Open: Maria Sharapova hands Harriet Dart a double bagel in campaign opener</a>

Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova took just 63 minutes to beat British qualifier Harriet Dart 6-0, 6-0 in the first match on Rod Laver Arena at this year’s Australian Open on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-heads-to-brexit-backing-city-to-make-last-ditch-plea-to-rebel-mps-190098">Theresa May heads to Brexit-backing city to make </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-heads-to-brexit-backing-city-to-make-last-ditch-plea-to-rebel-mps-190098">last-ditch</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-heads-to-brexit-backing-city-to-make-last-ditch-plea-to-rebel-mps-190098"> plea to rebel MPs</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May will on Monday repeat weekend&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/theresa-may-requests-mps-to-back-brexit-deal-190017">warnings to MPs</a>poised to reject her EU divorce deal that failing to deliver&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-in-dates-from-leave-shock-to-no-confidence-vote-183632">Brexit&nbsp;</a>would be "catastrophic" for British democracy.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/top-republicans-oppose-border-emergency-as-shutdown-drags-on-190088">Top Republicans oppose border 'emergency' as shutdown drags on</a>

Top Republican lawmakers on Sunday warned against Donald&nbsp;Trump declaring a national emergency&nbsp;to secure funds for a border wall, signalling doubts within the president's party as a government shutdown was set to enter the fourth workweek.

&nbsp;

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Will devastate Turkey economically if they hit Kurds: Trump President Donald Trump warned Turkey on Sunday of economic devastation if it attacks Kurdish forces in the wake of the US troop pullout from Syria, while also urging the Kurds not to "provoke" Ankara.

Will devastate Turkey economically if they hit Kurds: Trump President Donald Trump warned Turkey on Sunday of economic devastation if it attacks Kurdish forces in the wake of the US troop pullout from Syria, while also urging the Kurds not to "provoke" Ankara. Fuel prices continue to rise on fifth consecutive day, petrol crosses Rs 70 in Delhi Fuel prices continued to increase for the fifth consecutive day on Monday with prices of petrol crossing over Rs 70 in Delhi. While petrol witnessed an increase of 38 paise in Delhi and Mumbai, prices of diesel rose by 49 paise in Delhi and 52 paise in Mumbai. Australia Open: Maria Sharapova hands Harriet Dart a double bagel in campaign opener Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova took just 63 minutes to beat British qualifier Harriet Dart 6-0, 6-0 in the first match on Rod Laver Arena at this year’s Australian Open on Monday. Theresa May heads to Brexit-backing city to make last-ditch plea to rebel MPs Prime Minister Theresa May will on Monday repeat weekend warnings to MPspoised to reject her EU divorce deal that failing to deliver Brexit would be "catastrophic" for British democracy. Top Republicans oppose border 'emergency' as shutdown drags on Top Republican lawmakers on Sunday warned against Donald Trump declaring a national emergency to secure funds for a border wall, signalling doubts within the president's party as a government shutdown was set to enter the fourth workweek.

US Shutdown enters Day 22; Longest Shutdown in U.S History

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-will-skip-davos-meeting-if-us-government-shutdown-continues-189462">President Donald Trump</a> said on Friday he would not declare a national emergency "right now" to end a standoff over border security that has idled large swaths of the US government, all but guaranteeing that he will preside over the longest shutdown in US history.

The dispute has disrupted everything from air travel to tax collection and suspended pay for 800,000 government workers.

Trump has repeatedly described the situation at the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-refuses-to-sign-us-government-shutdown-legislation-over-mexico-wall-funding-185571&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi__cy2ieffAhWJv48KHX_iDGkQFggRMAQ&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ICS4HGTNKnSKjSI8j7hnX"> US-Mexico border </a>as a "humanitarian crisis" as speculation has increased this week that he would circumvent Congress to begin building his signature wall - a move that would be sure to draw a court challenge from Democrats who say the barrier would be barbaric and ineffective.

Instead, the president urged lawmakers to provide him the $5.7 billion he is seeking for border security.

"The easy solution is for me to call a national emergency. I could do that very quickly," Trump said during a White House event on border security. "I have the absolute right to do it. But I'm not going to do it so fast. Because this is something Congress should do."

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi mocked the president as she told reporters it was up to Trump to make the next move.

"Let's give him time to think it through. Think? Did I say think?" she said.

Trump spoke after lawmakers had adjourned for the weekend, precluding any possible action until next week. On Saturday, the shutdown will become the longest in US history.

Earlier on Friday, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives voted 240-179 to restore funding for the Interior Department and the Environmental Protection Agency, two of the agencies that have been shuttered since December 22.

But Republicans who control the Senate have so far stood with Trump and insisted that any spending bills include money for his wall. The chamber wrapped up business for the week without taking up the House-passed bill.

A national emergency would allow Trump to divert money from other projects to pay for the wall, which was a central promise of his 2016 campaign. That, in turn, could prompt him to sign bills that restore funding to agencies that have been affected by the shutdown.

Diverting money to the wall could shortchange flood-control efforts in California and reconstruction programs in Puerto Rico, which was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, according to Democratic Representative John Garamendi, who represents a district in California that would potentially be affected.

Trump already has threatened to withhold disaster-recovery approved in the wake of California wildfires.

"He has done everything he can to harm California," Garamendi told Reuters in a telephone interview.

Some of Trump's fellow Republicans are warning against a disaster declaration, saying it would undercut Congress's power under the U.S. Constitution to control government spending - and make it easier for a future Democratic president to bypass Capitol Hill.

"It's a bad precedent," Republican Senator Chuck Grassley said on CNBC.

SHUTDOWN IMPACT

Meanwhile, the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/prolonged-us-shutdown-threatens-to-unsettle-economy-187290"> impact of the shutdown </a>began to mount.

Miami International Airport said it will close one of its terminals early over the next several days due to a possible shortage of security screeners, who have been calling in sick at twice the normal rate.

A union that represents thousands of air traffic controllers sued the Federal Aviation Administration on Friday, saying it had violated federal wage law by failing to pay workers. It is at least the third lawsuit filed by unions on behalf of unpaid workers.

Roughly 800,000 federal workers did not receive paychecks that would have gone out on Friday. Some have resorted to selling their possessions or posting appeals on online fundraising sites to help pay their bills.

"Most of them are living from paycheck to paycheck and now they approach this day on Friday having moved from paycheck to no check," Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings said in debate on the House floor.

The head of the US Secret Service, which is responsible for protecting Trump, warned employees that financial stress can lead to depression and anxiety. "Keep an eye out for warning signs of trouble," Director RD&nbsp;"Tex" Alles wrote in a memo seen by Reuters.

Vice President Mike Pence said Trump will sign legislation passed in Congress that will provide back pay to federal workers once the government reopens.

"Your families will get your paychecks," he told US Customs and Border Protection officers at the agency's Washington headquarters.

Separately, Senator Rob Portman and eight other Republican senators introduced legislation that would permanently outlaw the closing of government operations during budget fights, underscoring the growing frustration in Washington.

During his presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly pledged that Mexico would pay for the wall, which he says is needed to stem the flow of illegal immigrants and drugs. But the Mexican government has refused and Trump is now demanding that Congress provide funding.

"They can name it 'peaches.' I don't care what they name it. But we need money for that barrier," Trump said.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he would not declare a national emergency "right now" to end a standoff over border security that has idled large swaths of the US government, all but guaranteeing that he will preside over the longest shutdown in US history.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he would not declare a national emergency "right now" to end a standoff over border security that has idled large swaths of the US government, all but guaranteeing that he will preside over the longest shutdown in US history. The dispute has disrupted everything from air travel to tax collection and suspended pay for 800,000 government workers. Trump has repeatedly described the situation at the US-Mexico border as a "humanitarian crisis" as speculation has increased this week that he would circumvent Congress to begin building his signature wall - a move that would be sure to draw a court challenge from Democrats who say the barrier would be barbaric and ineffective. Instead, the president urged lawmakers to provide him the $5.7 billion he is seeking for border security. "The easy solution is for me to call a national emergency. I could do that very quickly," Trump said during a White House event on border security. "I have the absolute right to do it. But I'm not going to do it so fast. Because this is something Congress should do." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi mocked the president as she told reporters it was up to Trump to make the next move. "Let's give him time to think it through. Think? Did I say think?" she said. Trump spoke after lawmakers had adjourned for the weekend, precluding any possible action until next week. On Saturday, the shutdown will become the longest in US history. Earlier on Friday, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives voted 240-179 to restore funding for the Interior Department and the Environmental Protection Agency, two of the agencies that have been shuttered since December 22. But Republicans who control the Senate have so far stood with Trump and insisted that any spending bills include money for his wall. The chamber wrapped up business for the week without taking up the House-passed bill. A national emergency would allow Trump to divert money from other projects to pay for the wall, which was a central promise of his 2016 campaign. That, in turn, could prompt him to sign bills that restore funding to agencies that have been affected by the shutdown. Diverting money to the wall could shortchange flood-control efforts in California and reconstruction programs in Puerto Rico, which was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, according to Democratic Representative John Garamendi, who represents a district in California that would potentially be affected. Trump already has threatened to withhold disaster-recovery approved in the wake of California wildfires. "He has done everything he can to harm California," Garamendi told Reuters in a telephone interview. Some of Trump's fellow Republicans are warning against a disaster declaration, saying it would undercut Congress's power under the U.S. Constitution to control government spending - and make it easier for a future Democratic president to bypass Capitol Hill. "It's a bad precedent," Republican Senator Chuck Grassley said on CNBC. SHUTDOWN IMPACT Meanwhile, the impact of the shutdown began to mount. Miami International Airport said it will close one of its terminals early over the next several days due to a possible shortage of security screeners, who have been calling in sick at twice the normal rate. A union that represents thousands of air traffic controllers sued the Federal Aviation Administration on Friday, saying it had violated federal wage law by failing to pay workers. It is at least the third lawsuit filed by unions on behalf of unpaid workers. Roughly 800,000 federal workers did not receive paychecks that would have gone out on Friday. Some have resorted to selling their possessions or posting appeals on online fundraising sites to help pay their bills. "Most of them are living from paycheck to paycheck and now they approach this day on Friday having moved from paycheck to no check," Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings said in debate on the House floor. The head of the US Secret Service, which is responsible for protecting Trump, warned employees that financial stress can lead to depression and anxiety. "Keep an eye out for warning signs of trouble," Director RD "Tex" Alles wrote in a memo seen by Reuters. Vice President Mike Pence said Trump will sign legislation passed in Congress that will provide back pay to federal workers once the government reopens. "Your families will get your paychecks," he told US Customs and Border Protection officers at the agency's Washington headquarters. Separately, Senator Rob Portman and eight other Republican senators introduced legislation that would permanently outlaw the closing of government operations during budget fights, underscoring the growing frustration in Washington. During his presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly pledged that Mexico would pay for the wall, which he says is needed to stem the flow of illegal immigrants and drugs. But the Mexican government has refused and Trump is now demanding that Congress provide funding. "They can name it 'peaches.' I don't care what they name it. But we need money for that barrier," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump stops short of emergency declaration in border wall fight

Flanked by border agents who are going without paychecks during a government shutdown, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-will-skip-davos-meeting-if-us-government-shutdown-continues-189462">US President Donald Trump</a> threatened on Thursday to use emergency powers to bypass Congress to pay for a wall on the US-Mexico border.

Trump flew to the Texas border with Mexico to try to bolster his case for the border wall as a partial US government shutdown tied to the issue stretched into its 20th day with no sign of new talks to resolve the impasse.

"We can declare a national emergency. We shouldn`t have to," Trump told reporters. "This is just common sense."

Such a step would likely prompt an immediate legal challenge over constitutional powers from congressional Democrats - a challenge Trump said he would win.

The Republican president is adamant that a government funding bill to end the shutdown include $5.7 billion for a border barrier - his signature campaign promise. Congressional Democrats oppose that.

The standoff has left a quarter of the federal government closed down and hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay.

A day after he stormed out of a meeting with Democratic leaders, Trump attacked them for refusing his demand, calling them harder to deal with than China, a rival power.

"I find China, frankly, in many ways to be far more honourable than Crying Chuck and Nancy. I really do," Trump said, referring to House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer.

The House passed two bills to fund the departments of transportation, housing and agriculture - each drawing a few more Republican votes than a similar effort on Wednesday to reopen the Treasury Department and other agencies.

The White House has said Trump would veto the bills if they made it to his desk.

Trump cancelled plans to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, which is scheduled to start on Jan. 22, signalling he was prepared for the shutdown to drag on.

"I have never been more depressed about moving forward than right now. I just don’t see a pathway forward," said Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, who said it was time for Trump to declare a national emergency.

`HIS ONLY WAY OUT`

Trump said his lawyers had told him he had the power to invoke national emergency powers to get his wall funded.

"I have the absolute right to declare a national emergency," Trump told reporters at the White House. "I’m not prepared to do that yet, but if I have to, I will."

The declaration would circumvent Congress` power over the national purse strings. A subsequent court fight could be protracted.

The Washington Post, citing two unnamed sources, reported that the White House was laying the groundwork for declaring an emergency that would let Trump build sections of a wall, possibly using funds from the Army Corps of Engineers.

NBC News, in a similar report, said Trump had been briefed on the plan involving the Army Corps while flying to the border on Thursday. A White House official denied Trump had been briefed on the plan, and the Pentagon declined to comment on the news reports.

Senator Joe Manchin, a moderate Democrat who has cultivated good relations with Trump, told reporters a national emergency declaration by Trump would be “wrong, but I think that’s his only way out” of the impasse.

If Trump were to make such a declaration, Manchin predicted the Senate would immediately pass legislation to fund the federal agencies that have been partially closed.

FRIDAY PAYCHECKS

Pressure on both sides could intensify on Friday when about 800,000 federal employees miss their first paychecks. About half of them are deemed "essential" to national security, like prison guards and airport security screeners - and have to continue working. Others are home on furlough.

At the FBI, where most agents continue to work, concerns are building that operational funds the bureau needs to conduct investigations, including sensitive undercover operations, are beginning to dry up, said Tom O’Connor, president of the FBI Agents Association.

The shutdown, which began on December 22, will be the longest in US history if it is still going on by Saturday.

In Texas, Trump focussed on stories told by tearful family members of people killed by illegal immigrants, and was shown plastic-wrapped bricks of heroin, bales of marijuana, guns and a bag full of cash seized by border agents.

Trump says undocumented immigrants and illegal drugs are streaming across the border, despite statistics that show illegal immigration there is at a 20-year low and that many drug shipments likely are smuggled through legal ports of entry.

Raul Ortiz, a local border patrol official, told Trump and reporters that 133 people from countries other than Mexico and those in central America - including India, Pakistan, China and Romania - had been apprehended in the stretch of territory around McAllen.

Just across the Rio Grande, in the Mexican city of Reynosa, a dozen recent deportees and US-bound migrants gathered near a cross that memorialized dead migrants.

Plagued by kidnappings, Reynosa is so dangerous for migrants that locals advise new arrivals against any trip alone out of the two shelters.

"Building a wall for a country, a nation so big, for a border so immense, so many kilometres is ridiculous," said Jose Ramon Poso Briseno, a Honduran man who has waited in a Reynosa shelter for five months but has so far balked at crossing the river out of fear of cartel violence.

Flanked by border agents who are going without paychecks during a government shutdown, US President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday to use emergency powers to bypass Congress to pay for a wall on the US-Mexico border.

Flanked by border agents who are going without paychecks during a government shutdown, US President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday to use emergency powers to bypass Congress to pay for a wall on the US-Mexico border. Trump flew to the Texas border with Mexico to try to bolster his case for the border wall as a partial US government shutdown tied to the issue stretched into its 20th day with no sign of new talks to resolve the impasse. "We can declare a national emergency. We shouldn`t have to," Trump told reporters. "This is just common sense." Such a step would likely prompt an immediate legal challenge over constitutional powers from congressional Democrats - a challenge Trump said he would win. The Republican president is adamant that a government funding bill to end the shutdown include $5.7 billion for a border barrier - his signature campaign promise. Congressional Democrats oppose that. The standoff has left a quarter of the federal government closed down and hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay. A day after he stormed out of a meeting with Democratic leaders, Trump attacked them for refusing his demand, calling them harder to deal with than China, a rival power. "I find China, frankly, in many ways to be far more honourable than Crying Chuck and Nancy. I really do," Trump said, referring to House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer. The House passed two bills to fund the departments of transportation, housing and agriculture - each drawing a few more Republican votes than a similar effort on Wednesday to reopen the Treasury Department and other agencies. The White House has said Trump would veto the bills if they made it to his desk. Trump cancelled plans to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, which is scheduled to start on Jan. 22, signalling he was prepared for the shutdown to drag on. "I have never been more depressed about moving forward than right now. I just don’t see a pathway forward," said Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, who said it was time for Trump to declare a national emergency. `HIS ONLY WAY OUT` Trump said his lawyers had told him he had the power to invoke national emergency powers to get his wall funded. "I have the absolute right to declare a national emergency," Trump told reporters at the White House. "I’m not prepared to do that yet, but if I have to, I will." The declaration would circumvent Congress` power over the national purse strings. A subsequent court fight could be protracted. The Washington Post, citing two unnamed sources, reported that the White House was laying the groundwork for declaring an emergency that would let Trump build sections of a wall, possibly using funds from the Army Corps of Engineers. NBC News, in a similar report, said Trump had been briefed on the plan involving the Army Corps while flying to the border on Thursday. A White House official denied Trump had been briefed on the plan, and the Pentagon declined to comment on the news reports. Senator Joe Manchin, a moderate Democrat who has cultivated good relations with Trump, told reporters a national emergency declaration by Trump would be “wrong, but I think that’s his only way out” of the impasse. If Trump were to make such a declaration, Manchin predicted the Senate would immediately pass legislation to fund the federal agencies that have been partially closed. FRIDAY PAYCHECKS Pressure on both sides could intensify on Friday when about 800,000 federal employees miss their first paychecks. About half of them are deemed "essential" to national security, like prison guards and airport security screeners - and have to continue working. Others are home on furlough. At the FBI, where most agents continue to work, concerns are building that operational funds the bureau needs to conduct investigations, including sensitive undercover operations, are beginning to dry up, said Tom O’Connor, president of the FBI Agents Association. The shutdown, which began on December 22, will be the longest in US history if it is still going on by Saturday. In Texas, Trump focussed on stories told by tearful family members of people killed by illegal immigrants, and was shown plastic-wrapped bricks of heroin, bales of marijuana, guns and a bag full of cash seized by border agents. Trump says undocumented immigrants and illegal drugs are streaming across the border, despite statistics that show illegal immigration there is at a 20-year low and that many drug shipments likely are smuggled through legal ports of entry. Raul Ortiz, a local border patrol official, told Trump and reporters that 133 people from countries other than Mexico and those in central America - including India, Pakistan, China and Romania - had been apprehended in the stretch of territory around McAllen. Just across the Rio Grande, in the Mexican city of Reynosa, a dozen recent deportees and US-bound migrants gathered near a cross that memorialized dead migrants. Plagued by kidnappings, Reynosa is so dangerous for migrants that locals advise new arrivals against any trip alone out of the two shelters. "Building a wall for a country, a nation so big, for a border so immense, so many kilometres is ridiculous," said Jose Ramon Poso Briseno, a Honduran man who has waited in a Reynosa shelter for five months but has so far balked at crossing the river out of fear of cartel violence.

Trump threatens to use emergency power to build wall, end shutdown

President Donald Trump said "bye-bye" and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-growing-humanitarian-and-security-crisis-at-our-southern-border-says-trump-in-televised-address-189114">stormed out of negotiations Wednesday</a> on funding a US-Mexico border wall when Democratic opponents refused to agree to the project.

"A total waste of time," Trump tweeted about his<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-to-build-the-wall-trump-on-ending-shutdown-188587"> White House meeting with top</a> Democratic congressional leaders. "I said bye-bye, nothing else works!"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Just left a meeting with Chuck and Nancy, a total waste of time. I asked what is going to happen in 30 days if I quickly open things up, are you going to approve Border Security which includes a Wall or Steel Barrier? Nancy said, NO. I said bye-bye, nothing else works!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1083099784012091396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Senate, told journalists Trump "sort of slammed the table," then "got up and walked out."

"Again, we saw a temper tantrum because he couldn't get his way," Schumer said.

Although the two sides agreed that the meeting ended abruptly, they argued over who was to blame.

According to supporters of Trump at the meeting, the president asked Democratic leaders whether they would agree to fund his wall project in exchange for him ending a painful shutdown of swaths of government, which he has instigated in retaliation for the standoff.

The Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, "raised her hand and said no, not at all," said Kevin McCarthy, the senior Republican in the House, who was also present.

"We heard once again that Democratic leaders are unwilling to even negotiate," Vice President Mike Pence said.

The vice president insisted that Trump came in good faith.

"The president walked into the room and passed out candy," Pence said. "I don't recall him ever raising his voice or slamming his hand."

Trump wants $5.7 billion to fund a wall he says is needed to keep out dangerous illegal immigrants, drug dealers and people smugglers from Mexico.

Democrats say the wall would have little impact on real border problems and that Trump's tough approach has instead created a humanitarian crisis among vulnerable, unthreatening migrants.

Trump's main lever to exert pressure on Congress has been to refuse signing spending bills that cover large areas of government. As a result, some 800,000 federal employees and many more contractors have now been without pay for almost three weeks.

Democrats insist they will not lift their opposition to the wall project and believe Americans will tire of the shutdown chaos and blame Trump.

But Trump indicated Wednesday on a visit to Republican allies in Congress that he will continue to play hardball.

"Whatever it takes," he told journalists, when asked how long the shutdown could continue.

Earlier at the White House, Trump told journalists that if he cannot get his way, he could declare a national emergency -- a measure that allows him to bypass Congress and take the wall funds he needs from the military.

"I think we might work a deal, and if we don't, we might go that route," he said, insisting he has the "absolute right" to declare an emergency, despite warnings in Congress that this could be seen as serious presidential overreach.

- 'American blood' speech - 
Trump's triumphant 2016 campaign relied heavily on his "build the wall" slogan and since then, he has pushed the idea that the United States is being overwhelmed by dangerous migrants who enter the country illegally.

But with Democrats winning control of the House in November midterm elections, Trump's wall push has come up against a wall of its own.

This week, an increasingly frustrated president is trying to seize the initiative.

On Thursday, he will fly down to the southern border that he described in a prime-time television speech Tuesday as an open door to murderers and other criminals.

"How much more American blood must we shed before Congress does its job?" Trump said.

"For those who refuse to compromise in the name of border security, I would ask to imagine if it was your child, your husband, or your wife whose life was so cruelly shattered and totally broken," he said in the nine-minute speech.

Trump claimed Wednesday that his address had been a success.

But Schumer scoffed: "I don't think he persuaded a soul with his talk last night. It was same old same old -- mistruths, divisiveness. Didn't have the effect he had hoped."

Washington is now waiting for either side to make a move -- and to see whether Trump will dare invoke emergency powers.

"Neither side feel they can cave and not pay a terrible political price," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on Fox News.

"Unfortunately, two things caught in the middle are securing our borders, and the men and women in federal government," he added.

President Donald Trump said "bye-bye" and stormed out of negotiations Wednesday on funding a US-Mexico border wall when Democratic opponents refused to agree to the project.

President Donald Trump said "bye-bye" and stormed out of negotiations Wednesday on funding a US-Mexico border wall when Democratic opponents refused to agree to the project. "A total waste of time," Trump tweeted about his White House meeting with top Democratic congressional leaders. "I said bye-bye, nothing else works!" Just left a meeting with Chuck and Nancy, a total waste of time. I asked what is going to happen in 30 days if I quickly open things up, are you going to approve Border Security which includes a Wall or Steel Barrier? Nancy said, NO. I said bye-bye, nothing else works! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2019 × Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Senate, told journalists Trump "sort of slammed the table," then "got up and walked out." "Again, we saw a temper tantrum because he couldn't get his way," Schumer said. Although the two sides agreed that the meeting ended abruptly, they argued over who was to blame. According to supporters of Trump at the meeting, the president asked Democratic leaders whether they would agree to fund his wall project in exchange for him ending a painful shutdown of swaths of government, which he has instigated in retaliation for the standoff. The Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, "raised her hand and said no, not at all," said Kevin McCarthy, the senior Republican in the House, who was also present. "We heard once again that Democratic leaders are unwilling to even negotiate," Vice President Mike Pence said. The vice president insisted that Trump came in good faith. "The president walked into the room and passed out candy," Pence said. "I don't recall him ever raising his voice or slamming his hand." Trump wants $5.7 billion to fund a wall he says is needed to keep out dangerous illegal immigrants, drug dealers and people smugglers from Mexico. Democrats say the wall would have little impact on real border problems and that Trump's tough approach has instead created a humanitarian crisis among vulnerable, unthreatening migrants. Trump's main lever to exert pressure on Congress has been to refuse signing spending bills that cover large areas of government. As a result, some 800,000 federal employees and many more contractors have now been without pay for almost three weeks. Democrats insist they will not lift their opposition to the wall project and believe Americans will tire of the shutdown chaos and blame Trump. But Trump indicated Wednesday on a visit to Republican allies in Congress that he will continue to play hardball. "Whatever it takes," he told journalists, when asked how long the shutdown could continue. Earlier at the White House, Trump told journalists that if he cannot get his way, he could declare a national emergency -- a measure that allows him to bypass Congress and take the wall funds he needs from the military. "I think we might work a deal, and if we don't, we might go that route," he said, insisting he has the "absolute right" to declare an emergency, despite warnings in Congress that this could be seen as serious presidential overreach. - 'American blood' speech - Trump's triumphant 2016 campaign relied heavily on his "build the wall" slogan and since then, he has pushed the idea that the United States is being overwhelmed by dangerous migrants who enter the country illegally. But with Democrats winning control of the House in November midterm elections, Trump's wall push has come up against a wall of its own. This week, an increasingly frustrated president is trying to seize the initiative. On Thursday, he will fly down to the southern border that he described in a prime-time television speech Tuesday as an open door to murderers and other criminals. "How much more American blood must we shed before Congress does its job?" Trump said. "For those who refuse to compromise in the name of border security, I would ask to imagine if it was your child, your husband, or your wife whose life was so cruelly shattered and totally broken," he said in the nine-minute speech. Trump claimed Wednesday that his address had been a success. But Schumer scoffed: "I don't think he persuaded a soul with his talk last night. It was same old same old -- mistruths, divisiveness. Didn't have the effect he had hoped." Washington is now waiting for either side to make a move -- and to see whether Trump will dare invoke emergency powers. "Neither side feel they can cave and not pay a terrible political price," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on Fox News. "Unfortunately, two things caught in the middle are securing our borders, and the men and women in federal government," he added.

Trump walks out of meeting on border wall, says 'bye-bye' to Schumer, Pelosi

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Australia has ordered strict punishment for a teenager who was caught forcing a quokka to vape on video.

In a recent video - a quokka a marsupial also known as short-tailed scrub wallaby- is seen standing on its back legs and curiously lick the e-cigarette device, which it assumed was food. The teenage girl then shoved the device down the vulnerable quokka’s throat, forcing it to vape.

When the authorities caught hold of the video, they quickly opened an investigation into this matter calling it "completely and utterly irresponsible and unacceptable for this poor defenseless, vulnerable animal to be subjected to that kind of cruelty," RSPCA WA executive manager Hannah Dreaver told 9News.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/neanderthals-population-might-have-declined-due-to-sex-with-humans-study-403707" hreflang="en">Neanderthal's population might have declined due to sex with humans: Study</a>

If and when the culprits are caught, they will be sentenced to a maximum jail sentence of five years along with a monetary fine of AUD$50,000 on charges of animal cruelty.

Quokkas have been classified as vulnerable to extinction. "Those animals are really, really vulnerable," Dreaver said. "They've become used to human interaction so they’re not running away from us"&nbsp;but are instead "actually seeking it out".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-how-venom-contributed-to-formation-of-new-species-of-insects-fishes-403636" hreflang="en">Study reveals how venom contributed to formation of new species of insects, fishes</a>

RSPCA has warned people to not indulge in any such acts of cruelty and has stressed that any form of food or liquid which is not a part of their natural diet is extremely harmful to them.

Considering how a young person was also fined for feeding alcohol to a quokka, authorities have warned that alcohol can "potentially kill an animal as small as this".

"What concerns us is that people do this and post it on social media thinking it’s funny, when it is actually intentional cruelty that can have severe or fatal effect on the animal," authorities said.

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Australia has ordered strict punishment for a teenager who was caught forcing a quokka to vape on video.

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Australia has ordered strict punishment for a teenager who was caught forcing a quokka to vape on video. In a recent video - a quokka a marsupial also known as short-tailed scrub wallaby- is seen standing on its back legs and curiously lick the e-cigarette device, which it assumed was food. The teenage girl then shoved the device down the vulnerable quokka’s throat, forcing it to vape. When the authorities caught hold of the video, they quickly opened an investigation into this matter calling it "completely and utterly irresponsible and unacceptable for this poor defenseless, vulnerable animal to be subjected to that kind of cruelty," RSPCA WA executive manager Hannah Dreaver told 9News. Also read | Neanderthal's population might have declined due to sex with humans: Study If and when the culprits are caught, they will be sentenced to a maximum jail sentence of five years along with a monetary fine of AUD$50,000 on charges of animal cruelty. Quokkas have been classified as vulnerable to extinction. "Those animals are really, really vulnerable," Dreaver said. "They've become used to human interaction so they’re not running away from us" but are instead "actually seeking it out". Also read | Study reveals how venom contributed to formation of new species of insects, fishes RSPCA has warned people to not indulge in any such acts of cruelty and has stressed that any form of food or liquid which is not a part of their natural diet is extremely harmful to them. Considering how a young person was also fined for feeding alcohol to a quokka, authorities have warned that alcohol can "potentially kill an animal as small as this". "What concerns us is that people do this and post it on social media thinking it’s funny, when it is actually intentional cruelty that can have severe or fatal effect on the animal," authorities said.

Trump holds firm on border wall, offers steel option as compromise

US President Donald Trump met top Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday, but they failed to hammer out an agreement that would end a partial government shutdown over his demand for billions of dollars to build a border wall with Mexico.

One day before Democrats take over the House of Representatives, Trump showed no signs of backing away from his insistence that Congress cough up $5.6 billion for his "beautiful" southern wall.

Trump met behind closed doors at the White House with Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat who will take over as speaker of the House on Thursday, and Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, but there were no indications any progress had been made in resolving the impasse.

"We asked the president to support the bills that we support that will open up government," Schumer said. "I asked him directly, I said 'Mr. President give me one good reason why you should continue your shutdown.'

"He could not give a good answer," Schumer said.

Republican Kevin McCarthy, who will be minority leader in the next House, said Democratic and Republican leaders of Congress would return to the White House on Friday for more talks.

"This doesn't need to go on very much longer," McCarthy said.

But Trump said he was prepared to hold out "as long as it takes" to secure the money he is seeking for the border wall.

"This is national security we're talking about," he said at a cabinet meeting ahead of the meeting with Pelosi, Schumer and top Republicans. "It's too important a subject to walk away from.

"I think the people of this country think I am right," Trump said, adding that it "could be a long time" before the government reopens.

Trump's meeting with Pelosi and Schumer was his first since an acrimonious Oval Office meeting with the pair on December 11.

Democrats say the border wall, one of Trump's key campaign promises, is a distraction from more complicated immigration problems and a tool for Trump to whip up support among his conservative base.

The standoff resulted in hundreds of thousands of federal employees being furloughed over the Christmas and New Year holidays -- and for the foreseeable future until a deal is reached.

Romney hits out at Trump

Amid the stalemate over the wall, Trump shelved his annual Christmas vacation in Florida, choosing to remain in Washington and fire off a stream of angry -- and often misleading -- tweets.

"Much of the Wall has already been renovated or built," he asserted, along with the dubious claim that Mexico would pay for the wall through the new trade deal between the two countries.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders accused Democrats of refusing to compromise.

"President Trump made a serious, good faith offer to Democrats to open the government, address the crisis at our border and protect all Americans," Sanders said.

Pelosi is proposing a plan that would fund most government agencies through September 30 with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees border security and would only receive funding through February 8.

Sanders described that approach as a "non-starter because it does not fund our homeland security or keep American families safe from human trafficking, drugs and crime."

Republicans lost 40 seats and their majority in the House in the November midterm elections but they retained control of the Senate by a slim margin.

Sixty votes, however, are needed to advance legislation in the Senate, requiring Democratic support.

Democratic Senator Chris Coons of Delaware welcomed the face-to-face meeting between Trump and Democratic leaders and told CNN he hoped it would lead to a end to what he called a "senseless" shutdown.

Republican Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader, has said he will only schedule a vote on a deal that has the support of both the House and Trump.

Adding to the uncertainty in Washington, an incoming senator, former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, lashed out at Trump on Tuesday in an opinion piece in The Washington Post.

"Trump's words and actions have caused dismay around the world," wrote Romney, who was elected to the Senate in November from his home state of Utah.

"I do not intend to comment on every tweet or fault," Romney said. "But I will speak out against significant statements or actions that are divisive, racist, sexist, anti-immigrant, dishonest or destructive to democratic institutions."

Trump expressed surprise over the comments said he hoped the Republican senator would prove to be a "team player."

In an interview with CNN, Romney said he would vote to provide funding for a border wall.

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump met top Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday, but they failed to hammer out an agreement that would end a partial government shutdown over his demand for billions of dollars to build a border wall with Mexico.

US President Donald Trump met top Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday, but they failed to hammer out an agreement that would end a partial government shutdown over his demand for billions of dollars to build a border wall with Mexico. One day before Democrats take over the House of Representatives, Trump showed no signs of backing away from his insistence that Congress cough up $5.6 billion for his "beautiful" southern wall. Trump met behind closed doors at the White House with Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat who will take over as speaker of the House on Thursday, and Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, but there were no indications any progress had been made in resolving the impasse. "We asked the president to support the bills that we support that will open up government," Schumer said. "I asked him directly, I said 'Mr. President give me one good reason why you should continue your shutdown.' "He could not give a good answer," Schumer said. Republican Kevin McCarthy, who will be minority leader in the next House, said Democratic and Republican leaders of Congress would return to the White House on Friday for more talks. "This doesn't need to go on very much longer," McCarthy said. But Trump said he was prepared to hold out "as long as it takes" to secure the money he is seeking for the border wall. "This is national security we're talking about," he said at a cabinet meeting ahead of the meeting with Pelosi, Schumer and top Republicans. "It's too important a subject to walk away from. "I think the people of this country think I am right," Trump said, adding that it "could be a long time" before the government reopens. Trump's meeting with Pelosi and Schumer was his first since an acrimonious Oval Office meeting with the pair on December 11. Democrats say the border wall, one of Trump's key campaign promises, is a distraction from more complicated immigration problems and a tool for Trump to whip up support among his conservative base. The standoff resulted in hundreds of thousands of federal employees being furloughed over the Christmas and New Year holidays -- and for the foreseeable future until a deal is reached. Romney hits out at Trump Amid the stalemate over the wall, Trump shelved his annual Christmas vacation in Florida, choosing to remain in Washington and fire off a stream of angry -- and often misleading -- tweets. "Much of the Wall has already been renovated or built," he asserted, along with the dubious claim that Mexico would pay for the wall through the new trade deal between the two countries. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders accused Democrats of refusing to compromise. "President Trump made a serious, good faith offer to Democrats to open the government, address the crisis at our border and protect all Americans," Sanders said. Pelosi is proposing a plan that would fund most government agencies through September 30 with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees border security and would only receive funding through February 8. Sanders described that approach as a "non-starter because it does not fund our homeland security or keep American families safe from human trafficking, drugs and crime." Republicans lost 40 seats and their majority in the House in the November midterm elections but they retained control of the Senate by a slim margin. Sixty votes, however, are needed to advance legislation in the Senate, requiring Democratic support. Democratic Senator Chris Coons of Delaware welcomed the face-to-face meeting between Trump and Democratic leaders and told CNN he hoped it would lead to a end to what he called a "senseless" shutdown. Republican Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader, has said he will only schedule a vote on a deal that has the support of both the House and Trump. Adding to the uncertainty in Washington, an incoming senator, former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, lashed out at Trump on Tuesday in an opinion piece in The Washington Post. "Trump's words and actions have caused dismay around the world," wrote Romney, who was elected to the Senate in November from his home state of Utah. "I do not intend to comment on every tweet or fault," Romney said. "But I will speak out against significant statements or actions that are divisive, racist, sexist, anti-immigrant, dishonest or destructive to democratic institutions." Trump expressed surprise over the comments said he hoped the Republican senator would prove to be a "team player." In an interview with CNN, Romney said he would vote to provide funding for a border wall.

US government shutdown could last a 'long time': Trump

The paralysis triggered by the US government shutdown could have unexpected consequences, such as muddying economic statistics just as the markets are extremely reactive to any whiff of uncertainty.

More than a week into the game of chicken between President Donald Trump and Democrats in Congress, the publication and recording of statistical indicators are being delayed.

With the lack of an agreement on Trump's much-promised wall on the border with Mexico, thousands of government workers are forced to stay home or work without pay due to budget shortages that are also hampering the publication of certain government indicators.

"There will be no lockups for Census or BEA (Bureau of Economic Analysis) and no posting of lockup data from either of those organisations because of the government shutdown affecting those agencies," said Labour Department spokeswoman Suzanne Bohnert, whose agency oversees the release of those indicators under embargo.

The release of data on new home sales is so far the only indicator to have been delayed.

But if the shutdown is still in effect after January 1, it could impact the release of figures on construction expenses, such as industrial orders, and on trade -- due January 8 -- which is critical for markets just as the Trump administration is involved in a full-fledged trade war with some US allies.

The closely watched employment figures for November, usually published the first Friday of the month, are set to be released on January 4 on schedule because the Labour Department still has funds to keep running its operations.

In addition to the publication of data, the very process of collecting this information is also beginning to be compromised.

"Odds are that it'll continue into January," Grant Thornton chief economist Diane Swonk said in a tweet.

"The impasse is already cutting into the supply of something that is essential to just about every market out there: federal economic data. That could have an impact on markets going forward and also what the Federal Reserve decides to do with interest rates in 2019."&nbsp;

With financial markets already extremely volatile and amid worries over tariffs with China and the Fed's monetary policy, the shutdown could add yet another layer of uncertainty.

The partial paralysis of administrative services will likely only have a mildly negative impact on economic growth, even though it's more tangible in the US capital, where affected government workers won't get paid.

"Thousands of federal workers would either be furloughed or work without pay for the duration of the shutdown," Oxford Economics said.&nbsp;

"While the economic impact of two-week partial shutdown would be minimal -- less than 0.1 per cent of GDP growth -- it would add political uncertainty at an inopportune time.

"Among other things, a shutdown would affect the release of economic indicators and disrupt the start of the 2019 tax filing season."

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser urged Trump to find a solution to end the stalemate, noting the capital's 170,000 federal workers "pay the highest price." These furloughs also have unexpected consequences for the private sector.

On Friday, the National Association of Realtors expressed concern about the shutdown's impact on home sales.

"Very disappointingly, flood insurance has not been available during the government shutdown... Which means that roughly 40,000 homes may not get transacted because it requires flood insurance in order to get a mortgage," NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun said.

"Any time there is a government shutdown, consumer confidence may be dampened, so even if they have the cash, they may not spend the money, and that will hold back economic growth, so it's bad news all around."&nbsp;

The paralysis triggered by the US government shutdown could have unexpected consequences, such as muddying economic statistics just as the markets are extremely reactive to any whiff of uncertainty.

The paralysis triggered by the US government shutdown could have unexpected consequences, such as muddying economic statistics just as the markets are extremely reactive to any whiff of uncertainty. More than a week into the game of chicken between President Donald Trump and Democrats in Congress, the publication and recording of statistical indicators are being delayed. With the lack of an agreement on Trump's much-promised wall on the border with Mexico, thousands of government workers are forced to stay home or work without pay due to budget shortages that are also hampering the publication of certain government indicators. "There will be no lockups for Census or BEA (Bureau of Economic Analysis) and no posting of lockup data from either of those organisations because of the government shutdown affecting those agencies," said Labour Department spokeswoman Suzanne Bohnert, whose agency oversees the release of those indicators under embargo. The release of data on new home sales is so far the only indicator to have been delayed. But if the shutdown is still in effect after January 1, it could impact the release of figures on construction expenses, such as industrial orders, and on trade -- due January 8 -- which is critical for markets just as the Trump administration is involved in a full-fledged trade war with some US allies. The closely watched employment figures for November, usually published the first Friday of the month, are set to be released on January 4 on schedule because the Labour Department still has funds to keep running its operations. In addition to the publication of data, the very process of collecting this information is also beginning to be compromised. "Odds are that it'll continue into January," Grant Thornton chief economist Diane Swonk said in a tweet. "The impasse is already cutting into the supply of something that is essential to just about every market out there: federal economic data. That could have an impact on markets going forward and also what the Federal Reserve decides to do with interest rates in 2019." With financial markets already extremely volatile and amid worries over tariffs with China and the Fed's monetary policy, the shutdown could add yet another layer of uncertainty. The partial paralysis of administrative services will likely only have a mildly negative impact on economic growth, even though it's more tangible in the US capital, where affected government workers won't get paid. "Thousands of federal workers would either be furloughed or work without pay for the duration of the shutdown," Oxford Economics said. "While the economic impact of two-week partial shutdown would be minimal -- less than 0.1 per cent of GDP growth -- it would add political uncertainty at an inopportune time. "Among other things, a shutdown would affect the release of economic indicators and disrupt the start of the 2019 tax filing season." Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser urged Trump to find a solution to end the stalemate, noting the capital's 170,000 federal workers "pay the highest price." These furloughs also have unexpected consequences for the private sector. On Friday, the National Association of Realtors expressed concern about the shutdown's impact on home sales. "Very disappointingly, flood insurance has not been available during the government shutdown... Which means that roughly 40,000 homes may not get transacted because it requires flood insurance in order to get a mortgage," NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun said. "Any time there is a government shutdown, consumer confidence may be dampened, so even if they have the cash, they may not spend the money, and that will hold back economic growth, so it's bad news all around."

Prolonged US shutdown threatens to unsettle economy

US Democratic leaders charged Monday that President Donald Trump was "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-markets-slump-trump-calls-fed-only-problem-in-us-economy-186249">plunging the country into chaos</a>" with multiple crises and said he was offering no way to end a government shutdown.

Nancy Pelosi, who takes over next month as House speaker, and Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Republican-led Senate, complained that White House aides were giving inconsistent messages on what Trump would accept to restart the government.

"It's Christmas Eve and President Trump is plunging the country into chaos," the two said in a joint statement.

"The stock market is tanking and the president is waging a personal war on the Federal Reserve -- after he just fired the secretary of defense," they said.

They warned that they saw little solution to the three-day-old shutdown so long as Trump aligns himself with hard-right Republicans in the House of Representatives.&nbsp;

"The president wanted the shutdown, but he seems not to know how to get himself out of it," they said.

Trump has refused to sign a bill to authorize spending to keep the government functioning as he demands funding for a $5 billion wall on the Mexican border, a top election promise as he railed against unauthorized immigrants.

Trump has put off vacation plans in Florida due to the shutdown and has been frequently posting his thoughts on Twitter.

On Monday he attacked the Federal Reserve, which is traditionally shielded from political pressure, over a sharp downturn on the stock market and defended his decision to pull all US troops from Syria, which led to the resignation last week of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, often considered the most respected member of his cabinet.

US Democratic leaders charged Monday that President Donald Trump was "plunging the country into chaos" with multiple crises and said he was offering no way to end a government shutdown.

US Democratic leaders charged Monday that President Donald Trump was "plunging the country into chaos" with multiple crises and said he was offering no way to end a government shutdown. Nancy Pelosi, who takes over next month as House speaker, and Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Republican-led Senate, complained that White House aides were giving inconsistent messages on what Trump would accept to restart the government. "It's Christmas Eve and President Trump is plunging the country into chaos," the two said in a joint statement. "The stock market is tanking and the president is waging a personal war on the Federal Reserve -- after he just fired the secretary of defense," they said. They warned that they saw little solution to the three-day-old shutdown so long as Trump aligns himself with hard-right Republicans in the House of Representatives. "The president wanted the shutdown, but he seems not to know how to get himself out of it," they said. Trump has refused to sign a bill to authorize spending to keep the government functioning as he demands funding for a $5 billion wall on the Mexican border, a top election promise as he railed against unauthorized immigrants. Trump has put off vacation plans in Florida due to the shutdown and has been frequently posting his thoughts on Twitter. On Monday he attacked the Federal Reserve, which is traditionally shielded from political pressure, over a sharp downturn on the stock market and defended his decision to pull all US troops from Syria, which led to the resignation last week of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, often considered the most respected member of his cabinet.

'Trump is plunging the country into chaos'

Warning that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/partial-us-government-shutdown-set-to-last-through-christmas-185912">the government shutdown could last longer</a>, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (local time) said that all news reports concerning the US government shutdown and Syria are fake.&nbsp;

He further stated that he is working hard and negotiating with Democrats on the need for Border Security, saying that it could be a long stay.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Trump said, "I am in the White House, working hard. News reports concerning the Shutdown and Syria are mostly FAKE. We are negotiating with the Democrats on desperately needed Border Security (Gangs, Drugs, Human Trafficking &amp; more) but it could be a long stay."&nbsp;

A partial government shutdown is imminent as the United States House of Representatives and the Senate was adjourned for the evening, as President Donald Trump and lawmakers remain at odds over border wall funding.&nbsp;

Although negotiations are underway in Congress to reach an agreement in an aim to prevent a government shutdown, virtually, there is no chance that a vote will take place on Friday night (local time).&nbsp;

Talking about Syria, Trump asserted that ISIS has been largely defeated and neighbouring countries including Turkey can take care of "whatever remains."&nbsp;

"On Syria, we were originally going to be there for three months, and that was seven years ago - we never left. When I became President, ISIS was going wild. Now ISIS is largely defeated and other local countries, including Turkey, should be able to easily take care of whatever remains. We`re coming home!" Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

Trump had earlier announced that US will be withdrawing army troops from Syria after declaring the defeat of ISIS in the region.

 
&nbsp;

Warning that the government shutdown could last longer, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (local time) said that all news reports concerning the US government shutdown and Syria are fake.

Warning that the government shutdown could last longer, US President Donald Trump on Saturday (local time) said that all news reports concerning the US government shutdown and Syria are fake. He further stated that he is working hard and negotiating with Democrats on the need for Border Security, saying that it could be a long stay. In a tweet, Trump said, "I am in the White House, working hard. News reports concerning the Shutdown and Syria are mostly FAKE. We are negotiating with the Democrats on desperately needed Border Security (Gangs, Drugs, Human Trafficking & more) but it could be a long stay." A partial government shutdown is imminent as the United States House of Representatives and the Senate was adjourned for the evening, as President Donald Trump and lawmakers remain at odds over border wall funding. Although negotiations are underway in Congress to reach an agreement in an aim to prevent a government shutdown, virtually, there is no chance that a vote will take place on Friday night (local time). Talking about Syria, Trump asserted that ISIS has been largely defeated and neighbouring countries including Turkey can take care of "whatever remains." "On Syria, we were originally going to be there for three months, and that was seven years ago - we never left. When I became President, ISIS was going wild. Now ISIS is largely defeated and other local countries, including Turkey, should be able to easily take care of whatever remains. We`re coming home!" Trump tweeted. Trump had earlier announced that US will be withdrawing army troops from Syria after declaring the defeat of ISIS in the region.

'News reports concerning the Shutdown and Syria are mostly FAKE': Trump

A feud between President Donald Trump and Congress over funding his proposed US-Mexico border wall gives lawmakers only five days to find a compromise and avert a partial shutdown of some government agencies that could leave about a quarter of the federal workforce without paychecks at Christmastime.

Trump is demanding $5 billion as a down payment on construction of a huge wall that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/undaunted-by-trumps-wall-migrants-vow-to-go-over-it-35674">he argues is the only way to keep illegal immigrants and drugs from crossing into the United States</a>. Democrats, and some Republicans, argue there are less costly, more effective border controls.

The money Trump wants is only a small fraction of the roughly $450 billion Congress was earlier poised to approve, if not for the wall fight, to fund several agencies which will otherwise run out of money on Dec. 21.

Large swaths of the government already are funded through next September, including the U.S. military and agencies that operate public healthcare, education and veterans' programs.

Several Republican and Democratic congressional aides on Friday said there was no apparent progress being made toward resolving the stand-off, after Trump and leading congressional Democrats battled each other on Tuesday in the White House Oval Office in front of television cameras.

"I am proud to shut down the government for border security," Trump told House of Representatives Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer.

Since then, a senior House Republican aide said his party was "in a pickle" over how to keep the government open.

The aide noted that Republicans, who still control both houses of Congress until Jan. 3, will not be able to muster the minimum 218 votes needed in the House to pass a funding bill if it contains Trump's demand for border wall money, which Democrats oppose.

If funds run out on Dec. 21, the NASA space program would potentially be unfunded, along with national parks, the U.S. diplomatic corps and agriculture programs.

Similarly, the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security would be vulnerable to shutdowns, although "essential" employees, such as FBI agents, airport security screeners and border patrol agents, would still report to work.

Their paychecks, however, would not be issued until the shutdown ends and Congress would have to decide whether to award back pay for them as well as any furloughed workers.

A government in such disarray might not play well for Republicans over the holiday period, especially if Americans also view images for two weeks of Trump vacationing at his exclusive Florida beach-front mansion.

"After the president’s comments earlier this week when he said he was going to own the shutdown, that sealed the deal for Democrats. There is absolutely no reason for them to cut a deal with this president," said Jim Manley, a political strategist and former Senate Democratic leadership aide.

With the clock ticking, the House is not even bothering to come to work until Wednesday night.

For now, Democrats are waiting for the White House to signal whether it will engage on legislation that would keep programs operating, but without money for Trump's wall.

If not, Manley predicted the government will limp along until Jan. 3, when Democrats take control of the House and Pelosi likely becomes the speaker and promptly advances funding, daring the Republican-led Senate to reject it.

A feud between President Donald Trump and Congress over funding his proposed US-Mexico border wall gives lawmakers only five days to find a compromise and avert a partial shutdown of some government agencies that could leave about a quarter of the federal workforce without paychecks at Christmastime.

A feud between President Donald Trump and Congress over funding his proposed US-Mexico border wall gives lawmakers only five days to find a compromise and avert a partial shutdown of some government agencies that could leave about a quarter of the federal workforce without paychecks at Christmastime. Trump is demanding $5 billion as a down payment on construction of a huge wall that he argues is the only way to keep illegal immigrants and drugs from crossing into the United States. Democrats, and some Republicans, argue there are less costly, more effective border controls. The money Trump wants is only a small fraction of the roughly $450 billion Congress was earlier poised to approve, if not for the wall fight, to fund several agencies which will otherwise run out of money on Dec. 21. Large swaths of the government already are funded through next September, including the U.S. military and agencies that operate public healthcare, education and veterans' programs. Several Republican and Democratic congressional aides on Friday said there was no apparent progress being made toward resolving the stand-off, after Trump and leading congressional Democrats battled each other on Tuesday in the White House Oval Office in front of television cameras. "I am proud to shut down the government for border security," Trump told House of Representatives Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer. Since then, a senior House Republican aide said his party was "in a pickle" over how to keep the government open. The aide noted that Republicans, who still control both houses of Congress until Jan. 3, will not be able to muster the minimum 218 votes needed in the House to pass a funding bill if it contains Trump's demand for border wall money, which Democrats oppose. If funds run out on Dec. 21, the NASA space program would potentially be unfunded, along with national parks, the U.S. diplomatic corps and agriculture programs. Similarly, the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security would be vulnerable to shutdowns, although "essential" employees, such as FBI agents, airport security screeners and border patrol agents, would still report to work. Their paychecks, however, would not be issued until the shutdown ends and Congress would have to decide whether to award back pay for them as well as any furloughed workers. A government in such disarray might not play well for Republicans over the holiday period, especially if Americans also view images for two weeks of Trump vacationing at his exclusive Florida beach-front mansion. "After the president’s comments earlier this week when he said he was going to own the shutdown, that sealed the deal for Democrats. There is absolutely no reason for them to cut a deal with this president," said Jim Manley, a political strategist and former Senate Democratic leadership aide. With the clock ticking, the House is not even bothering to come to work until Wednesday night. For now, Democrats are waiting for the White House to signal whether it will engage on legislation that would keep programs operating, but without money for Trump's wall. If not, Manley predicted the government will limp along until Jan. 3, when Democrats take control of the House and Pelosi likely becomes the speaker and promptly advances funding, daring the Republican-led Senate to reject it.

Standoff over Trump wall leaves US govt 5 days away from shutdown

Hundreds of thousands of federal workers began shutting down operations on Monday with the US government closed, as a bipartisan group of senators tried to negotiate a deal just hours before the full Senate planned another vote to restore funding.

As government employees prepared for the first weekday since the shutdown began at midnight Friday, US senators were to vote at midday on a funding bill to get the lights back on in Washington and across the government until early February.

Support for the bill was uncertain after Republicans and Democrats spent the weekend trying to strike a deal, only to go home for the night short of an agreement.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell late Sunday rescheduled an overnight vote on a measure to fund government operations through February 8, for 12 pm EST (1700 GMT) on Monday.

At the US Capitol, a group of bipartisan senators met on Monday morning in search of a deal but came out disagreeing on whether progress was made.

&quot;We&#39;re in a pretty good space right now,&quot; Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said as she left the meeting. But Democratic Senator Joe Manchin said senators remained in a stalemate.

White House legislative director Marc Short told the Fox Business Network he did not believe the Senate would get the 60 votes needed to move on funding legislation that would reopen the government.

&quot;I think that that pressure is building, but I&#39;m not sure we&#39;ll quite get to 60 today,&quot; he said.

President Donald Trump continued blaming Democrats for the funding lapse, citing their demand that protections for young illegal immigrants be included in any deal.

&quot;The Democrats are turning down services and security for citizens in favour of services and security for non-citizens. Not good,&quot; the Republican president said on Twitter.

Democrats have accused Trump of backing out of a number of deals after pressure from immigration hard-liners. The president has not appeared in public since the shutdown began.

Federal employees received notices on Saturday about whether they were exempt from the shutdown, White House budget director Mick Mulvaney said. Depending on their schedules, some were told to stay home or to go to work for up to four hours on Monday to shut their operation, then go home. None will get paid.

Up until Monday, most federal workers were not directly affected by the shutdown that began at midnight on Friday.

Federal government operations varied from agency to agency, with a number of critical functions continuing. The shutdown will not interrupt combat operations in Afghanistan and other military activities, the Defense Department said, and federal law enforcement officers remained on duty.

US cybersecurity functions were continuing, Mulvaney said, and CIA Director Mike Pompeo told the &quot;CBS This Morning&quot; program that agency operations were not affected.

Markets have absorbed the shutdown drama over the last week, and on Monday morning world stocks and US bond markets largely shrugged off Washington&#39;s standoff even as the dollar continued its pullback. US stocks were mixed in early trading.

&#39;Dreamers&#39; drama

The US government has not been shut down since 2013 when about 800,000 federal workers were put on furlough. That impasse prevented passage of a needed funding bill centered on former Democratic President Barack Obama&#39;s health care law.

The problem this time focused on immigration policy, principally President Donald Trump&#39;s order last year ending an Obama program called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which gave legal protections to &quot;Dreamer&quot; immigrants.

The &quot;Dreamers&quot; are young people who were brought to the United States illegally as children by their parents or other adults, mainly from Mexico and Central America, and who mostly grew up in the United States.

Trump said last year he would end DACA on March 5 and asked Congress to come up with a legislative fix before then to prevent Dreamers from being deported.

Democrats have withheld support for a temporary funding bill to keep the government open over the DACA issue. McConnell extended an olive branch on Sunday, pledging to bring immigration legislation up for debate after Feb. 8 so long as the government remained open.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer objected to the plan and it was unclear whether McConnell&#39;s pledge would be enough for Democrats to support a stopgap funding bill.

Republicans control both the House of Representatives and the Senate, where they have a slim 51-49 majority. But most legislation requires 60 Senate votes to pass, giving Democrats leverage.

Congress failed last year to pass a complete budget by Oct. 1, the beginning of the federal fiscal year, and the government has been operating on a series of three stopgap spending bills.

Hundreds of thousands of federal workers began shutting down operations on Monday with the US government closed

Hundreds of thousands of federal workers began shutting down operations on Monday with the US government closed, as a bipartisan group of senators tried to negotiate a deal just hours before the full Senate planned another vote to restore funding. As government employees prepared for the first weekday since the shutdown began at midnight Friday, US senators were to vote at midday on a funding bill to get the lights back on in Washington and across the government until early February. Support for the bill was uncertain after Republicans and Democrats spent the weekend trying to strike a deal, only to go home for the night short of an agreement. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell late Sunday rescheduled an overnight vote on a measure to fund government operations through February 8, for 12 pm EST (1700 GMT) on Monday. At the US Capitol, a group of bipartisan senators met on Monday morning in search of a deal but came out disagreeing on whether progress was made. "We're in a pretty good space right now," Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said as she left the meeting. But Democratic Senator Joe Manchin said senators remained in a stalemate. White House legislative director Marc Short told the Fox Business Network he did not believe the Senate would get the 60 votes needed to move on funding legislation that would reopen the government. "I think that that pressure is building, but I'm not sure we'll quite get to 60 today," he said. President Donald Trump continued blaming Democrats for the funding lapse, citing their demand that protections for young illegal immigrants be included in any deal. "The Democrats are turning down services and security for citizens in favour of services and security for non-citizens. Not good," the Republican president said on Twitter. Democrats have accused Trump of backing out of a number of deals after pressure from immigration hard-liners. The president has not appeared in public since the shutdown began. Federal employees received notices on Saturday about whether they were exempt from the shutdown, White House budget director Mick Mulvaney said. Depending on their schedules, some were told to stay home or to go to work for up to four hours on Monday to shut their operation, then go home. None will get paid. Up until Monday, most federal workers were not directly affected by the shutdown that began at midnight on Friday. Federal government operations varied from agency to agency, with a number of critical functions continuing. The shutdown will not interrupt combat operations in Afghanistan and other military activities, the Defense Department said, and federal law enforcement officers remained on duty. US cybersecurity functions were continuing, Mulvaney said, and CIA Director Mike Pompeo told the "CBS This Morning" program that agency operations were not affected. Markets have absorbed the shutdown drama over the last week, and on Monday morning world stocks and US bond markets largely shrugged off Washington's standoff even as the dollar continued its pullback. US stocks were mixed in early trading. 'Dreamers' drama The US government has not been shut down since 2013 when about 800,000 federal workers were put on furlough. That impasse prevented passage of a needed funding bill centered on former Democratic President Barack Obama's health care law. The problem this time focused on immigration policy, principally President Donald Trump's order last year ending an Obama program called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which gave legal protections to "Dreamer" immigrants. The "Dreamers" are young people who were brought to the United States illegally as children by their parents or other adults, mainly from Mexico and Central America, and who mostly grew up in the United States. Trump said last year he would end DACA on March 5 and asked Congress to come up with a legislative fix before then to prevent Dreamers from being deported. Democrats have withheld support for a temporary funding bill to keep the government open over the DACA issue. McConnell extended an olive branch on Sunday, pledging to bring immigration legislation up for debate after Feb. 8 so long as the government remained open. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer objected to the plan and it was unclear whether McConnell's pledge would be enough for Democrats to support a stopgap funding bill. Republicans control both the House of Representatives and the Senate, where they have a slim 51-49 majority. But most legislation requires 60 Senate votes to pass, giving Democrats leverage. Congress failed last year to pass a complete budget by Oct. 1, the beginning of the federal fiscal year, and the government has been operating on a series of three stopgap spending bills.

US government workers begin shutdown as Senate vote looms

President Donald Trump was faced Friday with the prospect of marking the first anniversary of his inauguration at the head of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-no-deal-in-sight-us-congress-faces-looming-government-shutdown-30110" target="_blank">broke </a>government, after senators failed to pass a stop-gap funding measure.

Republicans and Democrats traded blame for the crisis, which came to a head when the Senate failed to agree to bring forward a motion to fund federal spending and the military from midnight.

Essential services and military operations will continue, but many American civil servants and diplomats could arrive at work on Monday only to find themselves sent home without pay until the political crisis is resolved. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump, who cancelled a trip weekend trip to his Florida golf resort to join 11th hour horsetrading accused the Democratic opposition of putting US troops and border security at risk to score political points.

But Democratic leaders accused Republicans of poisoning chances of a deal and pandering to Trump&#39;s populist base by refusing to fund a program that protects 700,000 &quot;Dreamers&quot; -- undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children -- from deportation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&quot;Not looking good for our great Military or Safety &amp; Security on the very dangerous Southern Border,&quot; Trump tweeted, shortly before the 100-member Senate failed to muster the minimum 60 votes needed to get an emergency funding motion to the floor.

&quot;Dems want a Shutdown in order to help diminish the great success of the Tax Cuts, and what they are doing for our booming economy,&quot; he alleged.

After the Senate vote failed and with half an hour to go before the shut down was to start, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders tweeted: &quot;Democrats can&#39;t shut down the booming Trump economy. Are they now so desperate they&#39;ll shut down the government instead?&quot;

Earlier, after meeting top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, Trump had sounded more upbeat, saying the two New Yorkers were &quot;working on solutions&quot; to share with Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan.

But Schumer admitted a &quot;good number of disagreements&quot; remain between the two sides, despite a &quot;long and detailed meeting&quot; at which they discussed &quot;all of the major outstanding issues.&quot;

The president shelved plans to fly to Florida to celebrate at his Mar-a-Lago estate the first anniversary of his inauguration to remain in Washington to ride out the storm.

&quot;He&#39;s not leaving until this is finished,&quot; White House budget director Mick Mulvaney said.

Republicans have a tenuous one-seat majority in the Senate but would have needed to lure some Democrats to their side to get a 60 vote supermajority to bring the motion forward.

After around 15 minutes of voting more than 40 senators had voted against the motion, which is not technically closed until the last vote is cast.

When it became clear that this threshold was not going to be reached, Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell launched into a private debate with Schumer on the senate floor.

Democrats had insisted on a deal that would protect from deportation the so-called &quot;Dreamers&quot; -- immigrants who entered the country illegally but as children.

The measure brought to Congress would have extended federal funding until February 16 and reauthorized for six years a health insurance program for poor children -- a long-time Democratic objective.

But it would have cut the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, that affects Dreamers.

White House officials insisted there was no urgency to fix DACA, which expires March 5.

&quot;This is purely an attempt by the Senate Democrats led by Schumer -- why we call it the &#39;Schumer shutdown&#39; -- to try and get a shutdown the president gets blamed for,&quot; Mulvaney said.

With mid-term congressional elections looming later this year, Republicans risk being blamed by voters when the government stops functioning over lack of funds.

A new Washington Post/ABC poll found that 48 percent of Americans blame Trump and the Republicans for a potential shutdown, and only 28 percent hold Democrats responsible.

There have been four government shutdowns since 1990. In the last one in 2013, more than 800,000 government workers were put on temporary leave.

Essential functions like the military, law enforcement, the White House and Congress would continue working but with reduced staff. Some agencies would shut altogether.

But others in the massive bureaucracy will be sent home without pay.

International ratings agency Fitch said a partial shutdown was unlikely to affect America&#39;s AAA/stable rating for US sovereign debt.&nbsp;

Negotiations with the White House on a bipartisan compromise on DACA blew up last week after Trump reportedly referred to African nations and Haiti as &quot;shithole countries.&quot;

&quot;Tonight&#39;s failure in US Senate can be laid squarely at Donald Trump&#39;s feet,&quot; Democratic congressman Gerry Connolly tweeted.

&quot;Mr. Art of the Deal showed indecision, profound vulgarity and racist sentiments. Today he was barely active in trying to get a deal. Exactly one year in the job he proves he&#39;s not up to it.&quot;

Trump&#39;s unpredictable Twitter outbursts and sudden changes of position also have bedeviled Republican leaders as they maneuver to cut a deal.

Republicans and Democrats traded blame for the crisis, which came to a head when the Senate failed to agree to bring forward a motion to fund federal spending and the military from midnight

President Donald Trump was faced Friday with the prospect of marking the first anniversary of his inauguration at the head of a broke government, after senators failed to pass a stop-gap funding measure. Republicans and Democrats traded blame for the crisis, which came to a head when the Senate failed to agree to bring forward a motion to fund federal spending and the military from midnight. Essential services and military operations will continue, but many American civil servants and diplomats could arrive at work on Monday only to find themselves sent home without pay until the political crisis is resolved. Trump, who cancelled a trip weekend trip to his Florida golf resort to join 11th hour horsetrading accused the Democratic opposition of putting US troops and border security at risk to score political points. But Democratic leaders accused Republicans of poisoning chances of a deal and pandering to Trump's populist base by refusing to fund a program that protects 700,000 "Dreamers" -- undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children -- from deportation. "Not looking good for our great Military or Safety & Security on the very dangerous Southern Border," Trump tweeted, shortly before the 100-member Senate failed to muster the minimum 60 votes needed to get an emergency funding motion to the floor. "Dems want a Shutdown in order to help diminish the great success of the Tax Cuts, and what they are doing for our booming economy," he alleged. After the Senate vote failed and with half an hour to go before the shut down was to start, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders tweeted: "Democrats can't shut down the booming Trump economy. Are they now so desperate they'll shut down the government instead?" Earlier, after meeting top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, Trump had sounded more upbeat, saying the two New Yorkers were "working on solutions" to share with Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan. But Schumer admitted a "good number of disagreements" remain between the two sides, despite a "long and detailed meeting" at which they discussed "all of the major outstanding issues." The president shelved plans to fly to Florida to celebrate at his Mar-a-Lago estate the first anniversary of his inauguration to remain in Washington to ride out the storm. "He's not leaving until this is finished," White House budget director Mick Mulvaney said. Republicans have a tenuous one-seat majority in the Senate but would have needed to lure some Democrats to their side to get a 60 vote supermajority to bring the motion forward. After around 15 minutes of voting more than 40 senators had voted against the motion, which is not technically closed until the last vote is cast. When it became clear that this threshold was not going to be reached, Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell launched into a private debate with Schumer on the senate floor. Democrats had insisted on a deal that would protect from deportation the so-called "Dreamers" -- immigrants who entered the country illegally but as children. The measure brought to Congress would have extended federal funding until February 16 and reauthorized for six years a health insurance program for poor children -- a long-time Democratic objective. But it would have cut the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, that affects Dreamers. White House officials insisted there was no urgency to fix DACA, which expires March 5. "This is purely an attempt by the Senate Democrats led by Schumer -- why we call it the 'Schumer shutdown' -- to try and get a shutdown the president gets blamed for," Mulvaney said. With mid-term congressional elections looming later this year, Republicans risk being blamed by voters when the government stops functioning over lack of funds. A new Washington Post/ABC poll found that 48 percent of Americans blame Trump and the Republicans for a potential shutdown, and only 28 percent hold Democrats responsible. There have been four government shutdowns since 1990. In the last one in 2013, more than 800,000 government workers were put on temporary leave. Essential functions like the military, law enforcement, the White House and Congress would continue working but with reduced staff. Some agencies would shut altogether. But others in the massive bureaucracy will be sent home without pay. International ratings agency Fitch said a partial shutdown was unlikely to affect America's AAA/stable rating for US sovereign debt. Negotiations with the White House on a bipartisan compromise on DACA blew up last week after Trump reportedly referred to African nations and Haiti as "shithole countries." "Tonight's failure in US Senate can be laid squarely at Donald Trump's feet," Democratic congressman Gerry Connolly tweeted. "Mr. Art of the Deal showed indecision, profound vulgarity and racist sentiments. Today he was barely active in trying to get a deal. Exactly one year in the job he proves he's not up to it." Trump's unpredictable Twitter outbursts and sudden changes of position also have bedeviled Republican leaders as they maneuver to cut a deal.

One year on, Trump leads divided US into government shutdown

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