New York, United States
The United States is on the brink of another government shutdown, sparking concerns about the impact on federal services, the economy, and Americans' daily lives. With the deadline for a new spending bill fast approaching, lawmakers are scrambling to reach a compromise to avoid another shutdown.
<h2>A look at recent history</h2>
The US has experienced several government shutdowns in recent years. In 2018-2019, the longest shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, sparked by disputes over border security and President Trump's demand for a border wall. In 2013, a 16-day shutdown occurred during the Obama administration, caused by disagreements over the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, two consecutive shutdowns in 1995-1996, totaling 26 days, took place during the Clinton administration, stemming from conflicts over budget cuts.
<h2>What's at stake?</h2>
A government shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, including:
- Federal services: National parks, museums, and monuments would close, affecting tourism and local economies.
- Government payments: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments could be delayed.
- Military and defense: Troops would continue to work, but without pay.
- Economy: A shutdown could cost billions, affecting businesses and financial markets.
- Healthcare: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be impacted.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-rejects-republican-funding-bill-government-shutdown-looms-785424">US House rejects Trump-backed funding bill, government shutdown looms</a>
<h2>What's next?</h2>
Lawmakers have several options:
- Short-term continuing resolution: A temporary extension of current funding levels. 
- Omnibus spending bill: A comprehensive bill funding all federal agencies. 
- Minibus spending bill: A smaller bill funding select agencies.
- Executive actions: President Biden could use executive powers to mitigate the shutdown's impact.
- Emergency funding: Congress could pass emergency funding bills. 
Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-wants-to-work-gaza-truce-before-trump-inauguration-785637">Biden Wants To Work Gaza Truce Before Trump Inauguration</a>
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/20/2012_gaza_730pm_wion-1734708314-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2012_gaza_730pm_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=250&tags=israel,Hamas,war" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<h2>The road ahead </h2>
The recent rejection of a Trump-backed funding proposal underscores the deep divisions within Congress. Some factions insist on strict spending cuts, while others refuse to compromise on essential domestic programs. 
As negotiations continue, the next few hours and days are critical. Will Congress find a way to keep the lights on, or will the nation once again witness the fallout of political dysfunction? For millions of Americans, the answer will have immediate and lasting consequences.

The US has experienced several government shutdowns in recent years. In 2018-2019, the longest shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, sparked by disputes over border security and President Trump's demand for a border wall. 



New York, United States The United States is on the brink of another government shutdown, sparking concerns about the impact on federal services, the economy, and Americans' daily lives. With the deadline for a new spending bill fast approaching, lawmakers are scrambling to reach a compromise to avoid another shutdown. A look at recent history The US has experienced several government shutdowns in recent years. In 2018-2019, the longest shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, sparked by disputes over border security and President Trump's demand for a border wall. In 2013, a 16-day shutdown occurred during the Obama administration, caused by disagreements over the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, two consecutive shutdowns in 1995-1996, totaling 26 days, took place during the Clinton administration, stemming from conflicts over budget cuts. What's at stake? A government shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, including: - Federal services: National parks, museums, and monuments would close, affecting tourism and local economies. - Government payments: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments could be delayed. - Military and defense: Troops would continue to work, but without pay. - Economy: A shutdown could cost billions, affecting businesses and financial markets. - Healthcare: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be impacted. Also read: US House rejects Trump-backed funding bill, government shutdown looms What's next? Lawmakers have several options: - Short-term continuing resolution: A temporary extension of current funding levels. - Omnibus spending bill: A comprehensive bill funding all federal agencies. - Minibus spending bill: A smaller bill funding select agencies. - Executive actions: President Biden could use executive powers to mitigate the shutdown's impact. - Emergency funding: Congress could pass emergency funding bills. Watch | Biden Wants To Work Gaza Truce Before Trump Inauguration The road ahead The recent rejection of a Trump-backed funding proposal underscores the deep divisions within Congress. Some factions insist on strict spending cuts, while others refuse to compromise on essential domestic programs. As negotiations continue, the next few hours and days are critical. Will Congress find a way to keep the lights on, or will the nation once again witness the fallout of political dysfunction? For millions of Americans, the answer will have immediate and lasting consequences.

Explained: US lawmakers scramble to avert govt shutdown. Here's what's at stake

The United States is on the brink of another government shutdown, sparking concerns about the impact on federal services, the economy, and Americans' daily lives. With the deadline for a new spending bill fast approaching, lawmakers are scrambling to reach a compromise to avoid another shutdown.

<h2>A look at recent history</h2>

The US has experienced several government shutdowns in recent years. In 2018-2019, the longest shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, sparked by disputes over border security and President Trump's demand for a border wall. In 2013, a 16-day shutdown occurred during the Obama administration, caused by disagreements over the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, two consecutive shutdowns in 1995-1996, totaling 26 days, took place during the Clinton administration, stemming from conflicts over budget cuts.

<h2>What's at stake?</h2>

A government shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, including:

- Federal services: National parks, museums, and monuments would close, affecting tourism and local economies.

- Government payments: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments could be delayed.

- Military and defense: Troops would continue to work, but without pay.

- Economy: A shutdown could cost billions, affecting businesses and financial markets.

- Healthcare: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be impacted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-rejects-republican-funding-bill-government-shutdown-looms-785424">US House rejects Trump-backed funding bill, government shutdown looms</a>

<h2>What's next?</h2>

Lawmakers have several options:

- Short-term continuing resolution: A temporary extension of current funding levels.&nbsp;

- Omnibus spending bill: A comprehensive bill funding all federal agencies.&nbsp;

- Minibus spending bill: A smaller bill funding select agencies.

- Executive actions: President Biden could use executive powers to mitigate the shutdown's impact.

- Emergency funding: Congress could pass emergency funding bills.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-wants-to-work-gaza-truce-before-trump-inauguration-785637">Biden Wants To Work Gaza Truce Before Trump Inauguration</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-wants-to-work-gaza-truce-before-trump-inauguration-785637/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>The road ahead&nbsp;</h2>

The recent rejection of a Trump-backed funding proposal underscores the deep divisions within Congress. Some factions insist on strict spending cuts, while others refuse to compromise on essential domestic programs.&nbsp;

As negotiations continue, the next few hours and days are critical. Will Congress find a way to keep the lights on, or will the nation once again witness the fallout of political dysfunction? For millions of Americans, the answer will have immediate and lasting consequences.

The United States is on the brink of another government shutdown, sparking concerns about the impact on federal services, the economy, and Americans' daily lives.

The United States is on the brink of another government shutdown, sparking concerns about the impact on federal services, the economy, and Americans' daily lives. With the deadline for a new spending bill fast approaching, lawmakers are scrambling to reach a compromise to avoid another shutdown. A look at recent history The US has experienced several government shutdowns in recent years. In 2018-2019, the longest shutdown in US history lasted 35 days, sparked by disputes over border security and President Trump's demand for a border wall. In 2013, a 16-day shutdown occurred during the Obama administration, caused by disagreements over the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, two consecutive shutdowns in 1995-1996, totaling 26 days, took place during the Clinton administration, stemming from conflicts over budget cuts. What's at stake? A government shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, including: - Federal services: National parks, museums, and monuments would close, affecting tourism and local economies. - Government payments: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments could be delayed. - Military and defense: Troops would continue to work, but without pay. - Economy: A shutdown could cost billions, affecting businesses and financial markets. - Healthcare: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be impacted. Also read: US House rejects Trump-backed funding bill, government shutdown looms What's next? Lawmakers have several options: - Short-term continuing resolution: A temporary extension of current funding levels. - Omnibus spending bill: A comprehensive bill funding all federal agencies. - Minibus spending bill: A smaller bill funding select agencies. - Executive actions: President Biden could use executive powers to mitigate the shutdown's impact. - Emergency funding: Congress could pass emergency funding bills. Watch | Biden Wants To Work Gaza Truce Before Trump Inauguration The road ahead The recent rejection of a Trump-backed funding proposal underscores the deep divisions within Congress. Some factions insist on strict spending cuts, while others refuse to compromise on essential domestic programs. As negotiations continue, the next few hours and days are critical. Will Congress find a way to keep the lights on, or will the nation once again witness the fallout of political dysfunction? For millions of Americans, the answer will have immediate and lasting consequences.

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives has successfully passed a $467.5 billion spending package, marking a crucial step to prevent a partial government shutdown. <o:p></o:p>

With a vote of 339-85, the House approved the comprehensive bill, which covers funding for approximately 30 per cent of the federal government, including key departments such as Agriculture, Justice, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, among others. <o:p></o:p>

The legislation, comprising 1,050 pages, is now set to move to the Senate, aiming for passage before the midnight deadline on Friday when temporary funding expires for multiple Washington agencies.<o:p></o:p>

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson faced a challenge in obtaining support for the bill, relying on Democrats to secure its passage. <o:p></o:p>

The bill is a compilation of six funding bills, maintaining operations in significant federal bureaucracies, military base construction projects, and veterans' care. <o:p></o:p>

Despite opposition from 83 Republicans, the legislation now awaits Senate approval before the looming shutdown deadline.<o:p></o:p>

The spending package, aiming to fund federal programs until September 30, follows months of negotiations and a series of challenges for Speaker Mike Johnson, who inherited a slim 219-213 majority after the ouster of Kevin McCarthy. <o:p></o:p>

Critics, particularly hardlining conservatives, raised concerns about spending caps and the bill's failure to address Republican policy priorities. <o:p></o:p>

Representative Mike Simpson defended the bill, highlighting the need to control the federal government's growth.<o:p></o:p>

As Senate deliberations begin, the threat of a government shutdown looms once again in two weeks. <o:p></o:p>

The bill, extending funding for federal programs, marks the initial step in averting a shutdown. <o:p></o:p>

The Senate, led by both House and Senate leaders' commitment, is expected to back the measure with ample time before the impending deadline. <o:p></o:p>

The delay in passing full-year government funding measures has been a persistent issue, with Congress more than five months behind schedule. <o:p></o:p>

The spending bill's passage provides momentum for lawmakers to address the remaining six bills by the March 22 deadline, encompassing major government agencies such as the Defence Department, Homeland Security, State Department, and Health and Human Services.<o:p></o:p>

While Capitol Hill has been embroiled in spending disputes between Republicans and Democrats, the spending package is seen as a compromise. <o:p></o:p>

The legislation, upon Senate approval and President Joe Biden's signature, will extend funding for various federal programs and offer stability until the end of September. <o:p></o:p>

The breakthrough in passing this bill is timely for President Biden as he prepares to deliver his State of the Union address to Congress on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives has successfully passed a $467.5 billion spending package, marking a crucial step to prevent a partial government shutdown.

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives has successfully passed a $467.5 billion spending package, marking a crucial step to prevent a partial government shutdown. With a vote of 339-85, the House approved the comprehensive bill, which covers funding for approximately 30 per cent of the federal government, including key departments such as Agriculture, Justice, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, among others. The legislation, comprising 1,050 pages, is now set to move to the Senate, aiming for passage before the midnight deadline on Friday when temporary funding expires for multiple Washington agencies. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson faced a challenge in obtaining support for the bill, relying on Democrats to secure its passage. The bill is a compilation of six funding bills, maintaining operations in significant federal bureaucracies, military base construction projects, and veterans' care. Despite opposition from 83 Republicans, the legislation now awaits Senate approval before the looming shutdown deadline. The spending package, aiming to fund federal programs until September 30, follows months of negotiations and a series of challenges for Speaker Mike Johnson, who inherited a slim 219-213 majority after the ouster of Kevin McCarthy. Critics, particularly hardlining conservatives, raised concerns about spending caps and the bill's failure to address Republican policy priorities. Representative Mike Simpson defended the bill, highlighting the need to control the federal government's growth. As Senate deliberations begin, the threat of a government shutdown looms once again in two weeks. The bill, extending funding for federal programs, marks the initial step in averting a shutdown. The Senate, led by both House and Senate leaders' commitment, is expected to back the measure with ample time before the impending deadline. The delay in passing full-year government funding measures has been a persistent issue, with Congress more than five months behind schedule. The spending bill's passage provides momentum for lawmakers to address the remaining six bills by the March 22 deadline, encompassing major government agencies such as the Defence Department, Homeland Security, State Department, and Health and Human Services. While Capitol Hill has been embroiled in spending disputes between Republicans and Democrats, the spending package is seen as a compromise. The legislation, upon Senate approval and President Joe Biden's signature, will extend funding for various federal programs and offer stability until the end of September. The breakthrough in passing this bill is timely for President Biden as he prepares to deliver his State of the Union address to Congress on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

US House passes $467.5 billion spending bill, averts imminent government shutdown

The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources. The&nbsp;two-tranche short-term funding bill will keep the government afloat which otherwise would have capsized after hitting the midnight deadline of January 19.&nbsp;

According to the new resolution, the bill would fund the government through&nbsp;March 1 and March 8.&nbsp;Missing the first deadline would have meant&nbsp;delay in payments&nbsp;to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential.

The second government funding deadline, set to expire on February 2, focuses on eight&nbsp;appropriation&nbsp;areas such as defence, commerce, homeland security and financial service among others that may have lost funding if the bipartisan agreement was not reached.

While an agreement has been reached on the short-term bill, known as&nbsp;a continuing resolution or “CR", it will still have to pass both House and Senate before Friday (Jan 19).

The reported signing of the deal by House and Senate leaders comes a few days after they reached an agreement to set the overall spending level for fiscal year 2024 at $1.41 trillion.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts dow</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">n</a>

Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending.&nbsp;

The signing of the deal was announced jointly by&nbsp;Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House.

US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves&nbsp;us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Section of Republicans unhappy</h2>

Despite reaching an agreement on the overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans remains unhappy with the deal.&nbsp;The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure".&nbsp;

"Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group.&nbsp;

In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources.

The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources. The two-tranche short-term funding bill will keep the government afloat which otherwise would have capsized after hitting the midnight deadline of January 19. According to the new resolution, the bill would fund the government through March 1 and March 8. Missing the first deadline would have meant delay in payments to federal employees and severe disruption to many government services deemed non-essential. The second government funding deadline, set to expire on February 2, focuses on eight appropriation areas such as defence, commerce, homeland security and financial service among others that may have lost funding if the bipartisan agreement was not reached. While an agreement has been reached on the short-term bill, known as a continuing resolution or “CR", it will still have to pass both House and Senate before Friday (Jan 19). The reported signing of the deal by House and Senate leaders comes a few days after they reached an agreement to set the overall spending level for fiscal year 2024 at $1.41 trillion. Also read | Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down Both Republican and Democrat leaders at Capitol Hill agreed to the budget figure which includes $886 billion for defence and more than $704 billion for non-defence spending. The signing of the deal was announced jointly by Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader, and Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House. US President Joe Biden welcomed the deal, stating that the funding framework "moves us one step closer to preventing a needless government shutdown" whilst adding that it protects important national priorities. Watch | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade Section of Republicans unhappy Despite reaching an agreement on the overall amount of spending, a section of Republicans remains unhappy with the deal. The House Freedom Caucus, a conservative Republican group called the agreement a "total failure". "Sad to say but the spending epidemic in Washington continues with both parties being culpable," said Andy Biggs, the former chief of the group. In October last year, Congress secured a short-term deal to avoid a federal shutdown temporarily which was signed into a law by President Joe Biden, minutes before the deadline. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress leaders reach short-term deal to avert government shutdown till March: Report

The US House of Representatives on Thursday approved a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-sign-shutdown-bill-but-will-also-issue-emergency-declaration-senator-mcconnell-197500"> bipartisan border security bill </a>aimed at averting a government shutdown and sent it to President Trump, including new barriers for part of the US-Mexico border but not the $5.7 billion he sought.

"I rise to support this bipartisan agreement, which while not perfect, keeps our government open and funds many essential crucial needs," Democratic representative Debbie Wasserman said, adding," I can not stay silent on the President's threat to declare a national emergency to pay for his boondoggle of a border wall."

The Democratic-run House backed the measure, a spending bill providing over $300 billion for several government departments and agencies, 300 to 128. It passed the Senate earlier on Thursday. The White House has said Trump will sign it into law, but will also attempt to use unilateral powers to obtain money for a wall.

"Now, this is not the bill I would have written. And this is probably not the bill that any of my colleagues on the other aisle would have written. But we have all finally found a compromise that the Congress can pass," Republican John Rutherford said.

Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell had told colleagues that he spoke by phone with Trump, who "indicated he's prepared to sign the bill. He will also be issuing a national emergency declaration at the same time."

The White House confirmed the plan minutes later.

"He will also take other executive action - including a national emergency - to ensure we stop the national security and humanitarian crisis at the border," Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Trump is expected to sign the spending bill, expected ahead of a Friday midnight deadline.

Pelosi, Trump's Democratic nemesis, expressed disdain for the president's upcoming emergency declaration, warning that he was doing "an end run around Congress." "It's not an emergency, what's happening at the border," she said.

Trump's declaration is expected to be challenged in court.

The US House of Representatives on Thursday approved a bipartisan border security bill aimed at averting a government shutdown and sent it to President Trump, including new barriers for part of the US-Mexico border but not the $5.

The US House of Representatives on Thursday approved a bipartisan border security bill aimed at averting a government shutdown and sent it to President Trump, including new barriers for part of the US-Mexico border but not the $5.7 billion he sought. "I rise to support this bipartisan agreement, which while not perfect, keeps our government open and funds many essential crucial needs," Democratic representative Debbie Wasserman said, adding," I can not stay silent on the President's threat to declare a national emergency to pay for his boondoggle of a border wall." The Democratic-run House backed the measure, a spending bill providing over $300 billion for several government departments and agencies, 300 to 128. It passed the Senate earlier on Thursday. The White House has said Trump will sign it into law, but will also attempt to use unilateral powers to obtain money for a wall. "Now, this is not the bill I would have written. And this is probably not the bill that any of my colleagues on the other aisle would have written. But we have all finally found a compromise that the Congress can pass," Republican John Rutherford said. Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell had told colleagues that he spoke by phone with Trump, who "indicated he's prepared to sign the bill. He will also be issuing a national emergency declaration at the same time." The White House confirmed the plan minutes later. "He will also take other executive action - including a national emergency - to ensure we stop the national security and humanitarian crisis at the border," Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. Trump is expected to sign the spending bill, expected ahead of a Friday midnight deadline. Pelosi, Trump's Democratic nemesis, expressed disdain for the president's upcoming emergency declaration, warning that he was doing "an end run around Congress." "It's not an emergency, what's happening at the border," she said. Trump's declaration is expected to be challenged in court.

US House passes border security bill, sends it to Trump

US government agencies that had largely shuttered operations for five weeks during a budget standoff said on Saturday they were moving swiftly to resume operations and compensate employees for missed paychecks.

The White House held a conference call with Cabinet department financial officers late Friday to discuss the resumption of government operations, while agencies began to grapple with a backlog of management and policy issues.

The partial government shutdown - at 35 days the longest in US&nbsp;history - led to some 800,000 federal workers going unpaid, including 380,000 furloughed workers.

President Donald Trump on Friday signed a measure to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to hammer out a bill to fund the federal government through Sept. 30. Trump had demanded $5.7 billion in funding for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border, but Democratic legislators refused to include the money.

The White House Office of Management and Budget's acting chief, Russell Vought, told agencies in a memo to reopen "in a prompt and orderly manner."

Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb wrote Saturday on Twitter that the agency would send back pay to staffers no later than Thursday.

Gottlieb told employees the FDA would hold an all-hands meeting on Tuesday. "There will be impacts from this prolonged lapse in funding," he wrote. "But this agency has always faced challenge."

The Coast Guard told personnel it was "working through the weekend to process your pay as quickly as possible" and said back pay should be received by Thursday.

Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week.

It will take agencies days to dig out from weeks of unread emails and deal with other logistical issues like expired email passwords or ID badges, agency officials said. Furloughed workers were told not to read emails or answer phone calls while off duty.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) asked employees for "patience and attention, especially during the first 48 hours," noting that the vast majority of employees' laptops and smartphones have been inactive for more than a month and have not had "critical, regularly scheduled maintenance."

During the shutdown, some government agencies did not complete contracts for grants, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stopped reviewing and making public new auto safety recalls, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stopped certifying some new aircraft and routes.

The Smithsonian Institution said museums in Washington and the National Zoo will reopen on Tuesday. In Philadelphia, Independence National Historical Park - which includes a center that houses the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence - reopened on Saturday. Other sites are reopening on Sunday, including Ford's Theatre in Washington.

Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Jay Clayton said on Saturday in a statement that the agency is "continuing to assess how to most effectively transition to normal operations."

He said some SEC units, including those devoted to corporate finance, trading and markets, and investment management and the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations, "will be publishing statements in the coming days regarding their transition plans."

The SEC has been unable to approve initial public offerings during the shutdown, and some analysts had suggested the issue could delay IPOs in 2019.

It will take the Federal Register, which publishes government regulatory actions, weeks to catch up with the backlog of documents, which will delay the start of public comments on some proposals.

The shutdown is also likely to delay the rollout of Trump's 2020 budget proposal and congressional hearings on the budget. It is not clear when Trump will deliver his State of the Union Address, but one administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Saturday it is not likely to be until February.

US government agencies that had largely shuttered operations for five weeks during a budget standoff said on Saturday they were moving swiftly to resume operations and compensate employees for missed paychecks.

US government agencies that had largely shuttered operations for five weeks during a budget standoff said on Saturday they were moving swiftly to resume operations and compensate employees for missed paychecks. The White House held a conference call with Cabinet department financial officers late Friday to discuss the resumption of government operations, while agencies began to grapple with a backlog of management and policy issues. The partial government shutdown - at 35 days the longest in US history - led to some 800,000 federal workers going unpaid, including 380,000 furloughed workers. President Donald Trump on Friday signed a measure to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to hammer out a bill to fund the federal government through Sept. 30. Trump had demanded $5.7 billion in funding for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border, but Democratic legislators refused to include the money. The White House Office of Management and Budget's acting chief, Russell Vought, told agencies in a memo to reopen "in a prompt and orderly manner." Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb wrote Saturday on Twitter that the agency would send back pay to staffers no later than Thursday. Gottlieb told employees the FDA would hold an all-hands meeting on Tuesday. "There will be impacts from this prolonged lapse in funding," he wrote. "But this agency has always faced challenge." The Coast Guard told personnel it was "working through the weekend to process your pay as quickly as possible" and said back pay should be received by Thursday. Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week. It will take agencies days to dig out from weeks of unread emails and deal with other logistical issues like expired email passwords or ID badges, agency officials said. Furloughed workers were told not to read emails or answer phone calls while off duty. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) asked employees for "patience and attention, especially during the first 48 hours," noting that the vast majority of employees' laptops and smartphones have been inactive for more than a month and have not had "critical, regularly scheduled maintenance." During the shutdown, some government agencies did not complete contracts for grants, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stopped reviewing and making public new auto safety recalls, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stopped certifying some new aircraft and routes. The Smithsonian Institution said museums in Washington and the National Zoo will reopen on Tuesday. In Philadelphia, Independence National Historical Park - which includes a center that houses the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence - reopened on Saturday. Other sites are reopening on Sunday, including Ford's Theatre in Washington. Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Jay Clayton said on Saturday in a statement that the agency is "continuing to assess how to most effectively transition to normal operations." He said some SEC units, including those devoted to corporate finance, trading and markets, and investment management and the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations, "will be publishing statements in the coming days regarding their transition plans." The SEC has been unable to approve initial public offerings during the shutdown, and some analysts had suggested the issue could delay IPOs in 2019. It will take the Federal Register, which publishes government regulatory actions, weeks to catch up with the backlog of documents, which will delay the start of public comments on some proposals. The shutdown is also likely to delay the rollout of Trump's 2020 budget proposal and congressional hearings on the budget. It is not clear when Trump will deliver his State of the Union Address, but one administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Saturday it is not likely to be until February.

Government agencies gear up to restart operations on Monday after longest shutdown in US history

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581">Dueling</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581"> plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume</a>

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-to-close-us-embassy-consulates-maduro-192578">Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro</a>

Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">Taliban appoints </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600"> political leader to join peace talks with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">US</a>

A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official</a>

Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday.

A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-envoy-says-dialogue-is-indispensable-to-resolve-tensions-between-india-pakistan-192594">Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan</a>

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security. Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president. Taliban appoints new political leader to join peace talks with US A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war. US, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday. A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings. Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

News brief: Big stories of the day

As the United States endures the longest shutdown in its history, Americans are getting a taste of life without government.

The absence of some services is clearly visible, such as a buildup of trash at national parks or longer lines at airport security checkpoints.&nbsp;

Others, like those felt primarily by businesses, are less noticeable but arguably more important, such as an inability to get a small business loan or limited service from the IRS, Securities and Exchange Commission and other key agencies.

Collectively they show that government matters. But once the shutdown ends and the memories of the pain and discomfort it caused to begin to fade, the visceral reminder Americans got of this message may fade with it.

As scholars of business and policy, we believe it’s essential that Americans not forget. In fact, the shutdown provides a good opportunity to reflect on the government’s vital role in the free market and find a better balance between regulation and business.

How the shutdown is affecting business

The partial shutdown, in its fifth week, has left about 800,000 government employees either furloughed or working without pay, affecting more than 10 agencies.

This has resulted in the slowing or halting of a great deal of activity, including food safety inspections, initial public offerings on the stock market and the approval of new craft beers.

And these costs are felt by citizens as the risks grow to their food, the environment and other things. Economists warn that long-term impacts could also undermine confidence as businesses, consumers and investors lose faith in political leaders’ ability to make constructive policies.

The White House’s own economists estimate that every week of shutdown reduces growth by 0.13 percentage point, meaning the economy has already taken a hit of half a per cent. If it goes for another week, total costs could exceed $6 billion, which is more than what the president is demanding for his border wall.

And yet Americans won’t even know the actual impact because many of the government workers whose job it is to collect and measure economic activity have been sent home.

Hamilton and public goods

While the shutdown crystallises what the absence of government feels like, the debate over its proper role in business is as old as the American Republic.

For example, Alexander Hamilton, the nation’s first Treasury secretary, wrote eloquently about the need for the government to get involved in markets, specifically through the establishment of a national bank. He called it a key public institution that “facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. The industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.”

Beyond a central bank, “public goods” often require the protection of a set of laws. Examples include the environment, national defence, national parks, consumer protection and advanced research that helps seed inventions and create the industries of our future.

Author Michael Lewis, in his book “The Fifth Risk,” details many of the important yet little-noticed functions that government agencies handle better than private industry, such as the protection of food safety or the oversight of spent nuclear resources. Further, he shows how a functioning economy depends on civil servants using the best data and science available to provide vital services to all Americans.

To offer just one example of the federal government’s positive role in fostering innovation, its creation of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency in 1957 gave us the internet, GPS, stealth aircraft and countless other technologies used in non-defence sectors today.

On the flip side, the absence of proper regulation can lead to serious economic and personal damage, as we saw during the global financial crisis a decade ago. And only government – through regulatory agencies and smartly designed laws – is in a position to prevent another crisis. Indeed, fears are growing that another one may be on the horizon as a result of Wall Street excesses or financial bubbles in housing or debt.

The point is that in all these cases, the question is not about “no government” but about how much, what kind and which level (state or federal).

Americans’ evolving views

It’s good news in our opinion that Americans seem to be increasingly abandoning the view that government should stay out of business and the market. And more are embracing an expanded role.

In 2011, half of Americans polled by Gallup said there’s “too much” regulation. The latest survey, taken in late 2018, found that just 39 per cent felt that way – the lowest in a decade – with a growing share saying that the balance is “just right.”

This comes at a time when the Trump administration is boasting about the number of regulations it has eliminated. Yet these surveys suggest Americans don’t simply want fewer regulations, they want better ones.

Even more encouraging in our view is a Cato survey from 2017 that found that large majorities of Americans “believe regulations, at least in the past, have produced positive benefits” and that “regulations can help make businesses more responsive to people’s needs.”

One area where people see a value in government regulation is the financial sector, which is seen as rapacious and in need of more monitoring.

And 1 in 4 Americans surveyed by Gallup said there’s “too little” regulation, a figure that hasn’t changed much in recent years. This suggests that a notable number of Americans don’t trust the private sector and think that government is necessary to curb market excess and other problems.

Toward a better balance

But instead of a debate over the right balance for the government, American politicians and others have denigrated government as “the problem” or, more recently, “the swamp.” The terms are meant to say that government is alternatively inept, obstructive or corrupt.

They do this to take advantage of the still too widespread view that government has no role in markets and that regulation represents an unwarranted intrusion on business. This is a misperception that dismays both of us, motivating the very article you are reading.

While there certainly are problems with special interest influence in government and bureaucratic inefficiency, the enterprise as a whole remains central to the operation of capitalism and the markets. After all, capitalism is a set of institutions designed by the government in concert with business and civil society.

As National Affairs editor Yuval Levin points out, even Adam Smith, the Scottish economist who wrote the foundational texts on capitalism, argued that “the rules of the market are not self-legislating or naturally obvious.” Rather, Smith said, the market is a public institution that requires rules imposed on it.

So we believe it is time to return to the basics and launch a new effort at reinventing government to improve how the various branches and levels interact with each other and the market.

At the same time, it’s important to provide more public education on what the government does, and why, and solicit feedback from citizens on how to do it better – including at the ballot box.

(Andrew J Hoffman is Holcim (US) Professor, University of Michigan; Ellen Hughes-Cromwick is Senior Economist and Associate Director of Social Science and Policy, University of Michigan Energy Institute)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/shutdowns-economic-impact-is-a-forceful-reminder-of-why-government-matters-105940">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

As the United States endures the longest shutdown in its history, Americans are getting a taste of life without government. The absence of some services is clearly visible, such as a buildup of trash at national parks or longer lines at airport security checkpoints.

As the United States endures the longest shutdown in its history, Americans are getting a taste of life without government. The absence of some services is clearly visible, such as a buildup of trash at national parks or longer lines at airport security checkpoints. Others, like those felt primarily by businesses, are less noticeable but arguably more important, such as an inability to get a small business loan or limited service from the IRS, Securities and Exchange Commission and other key agencies. Collectively they show that government matters. But once the shutdown ends and the memories of the pain and discomfort it caused to begin to fade, the visceral reminder Americans got of this message may fade with it. As scholars of business and policy, we believe it’s essential that Americans not forget. In fact, the shutdown provides a good opportunity to reflect on the government’s vital role in the free market and find a better balance between regulation and business. How the shutdown is affecting business The partial shutdown, in its fifth week, has left about 800,000 government employees either furloughed or working without pay, affecting more than 10 agencies. This has resulted in the slowing or halting of a great deal of activity, including food safety inspections, initial public offerings on the stock market and the approval of new craft beers. And these costs are felt by citizens as the risks grow to their food, the environment and other things. Economists warn that long-term impacts could also undermine confidence as businesses, consumers and investors lose faith in political leaders’ ability to make constructive policies. The White House’s own economists estimate that every week of shutdown reduces growth by 0.13 percentage point, meaning the economy has already taken a hit of half a per cent. If it goes for another week, total costs could exceed $6 billion, which is more than what the president is demanding for his border wall. And yet Americans won’t even know the actual impact because many of the government workers whose job it is to collect and measure economic activity have been sent home. Hamilton and public goods While the shutdown crystallises what the absence of government feels like, the debate over its proper role in business is as old as the American Republic. For example, Alexander Hamilton, the nation’s first Treasury secretary, wrote eloquently about the need for the government to get involved in markets, specifically through the establishment of a national bank. He called it a key public institution that “facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. The industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.” Beyond a central bank, “public goods” often require the protection of a set of laws. Examples include the environment, national defence, national parks, consumer protection and advanced research that helps seed inventions and create the industries of our future. Author Michael Lewis, in his book “The Fifth Risk,” details many of the important yet little-noticed functions that government agencies handle better than private industry, such as the protection of food safety or the oversight of spent nuclear resources. Further, he shows how a functioning economy depends on civil servants using the best data and science available to provide vital services to all Americans. To offer just one example of the federal government’s positive role in fostering innovation, its creation of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency in 1957 gave us the internet, GPS, stealth aircraft and countless other technologies used in non-defence sectors today. On the flip side, the absence of proper regulation can lead to serious economic and personal damage, as we saw during the global financial crisis a decade ago. And only government – through regulatory agencies and smartly designed laws – is in a position to prevent another crisis. Indeed, fears are growing that another one may be on the horizon as a result of Wall Street excesses or financial bubbles in housing or debt. The point is that in all these cases, the question is not about “no government” but about how much, what kind and which level (state or federal). Americans’ evolving views It’s good news in our opinion that Americans seem to be increasingly abandoning the view that government should stay out of business and the market. And more are embracing an expanded role. In 2011, half of Americans polled by Gallup said there’s “too much” regulation. The latest survey, taken in late 2018, found that just 39 per cent felt that way – the lowest in a decade – with a growing share saying that the balance is “just right.” This comes at a time when the Trump administration is boasting about the number of regulations it has eliminated. Yet these surveys suggest Americans don’t simply want fewer regulations, they want better ones. Even more encouraging in our view is a Cato survey from 2017 that found that large majorities of Americans “believe regulations, at least in the past, have produced positive benefits” and that “regulations can help make businesses more responsive to people’s needs.” One area where people see a value in government regulation is the financial sector, which is seen as rapacious and in need of more monitoring. And 1 in 4 Americans surveyed by Gallup said there’s “too little” regulation, a figure that hasn’t changed much in recent years. This suggests that a notable number of Americans don’t trust the private sector and think that government is necessary to curb market excess and other problems. Toward a better balance But instead of a debate over the right balance for the government, American politicians and others have denigrated government as “the problem” or, more recently, “the swamp.” The terms are meant to say that government is alternatively inept, obstructive or corrupt. They do this to take advantage of the still too widespread view that government has no role in markets and that regulation represents an unwarranted intrusion on business. This is a misperception that dismays both of us, motivating the very article you are reading. While there certainly are problems with special interest influence in government and bureaucratic inefficiency, the enterprise as a whole remains central to the operation of capitalism and the markets. After all, capitalism is a set of institutions designed by the government in concert with business and civil society. As National Affairs editor Yuval Levin points out, even Adam Smith, the Scottish economist who wrote the foundational texts on capitalism, argued that “the rules of the market are not self-legislating or naturally obvious.” Rather, Smith said, the market is a public institution that requires rules imposed on it. So we believe it is time to return to the basics and launch a new effort at reinventing government to improve how the various branches and levels interact with each other and the market. At the same time, it’s important to provide more public education on what the government does, and why, and solicit feedback from citizens on how to do it better – including at the ballot box. (Andrew J Hoffman is Holcim (US) Professor, University of Michigan; Ellen Hughes-Cromwick is Senior Economist and Associate Director of Social Science and Policy, University of Michigan Energy Institute) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Shutdown’s economic impact is a forceful reminder of why government matter

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."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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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."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ten-sailors-dead-after-2-ships-catch-fire-near-crimea-indian-crewmen-may-be-among-casualties-191893">Ten sailors dead after 2 ships catch fire near Crimea; Indian crewmen may be among casualties&nbsp;</a>

Ten sailors have been found dead and 14 rescued after two ships caught fire in the Kerch Strait near Crimea.&nbsp;

Indian crewmen may be among the dead.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-on-course-to-miss-its-best-chance-of-preventing-runaway-climate-change-study-191884">World</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-on-course-to-miss-its-best-chance-of-preventing-runaway-climate-change-study-191884"> is going to miss its 'best chance' of preventing runaway climate change: Study</a>

The world is on course to miss its "best chance" of preventing runaway climate change by ensuring global greenhouse gas emissions peak in 2020, researchers warned Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-shutdown-enters-2nd-month-tuesday-no-quick-end-in-sight-yet-191897">US govt shutdown enters 2nd month Tuesday, no quick end in sight yet</a>

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.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-director-nageswara-rao-transfers-20-officers-191880">Interim CBI Director Nageswara Rao transfers 20 officers</a>

In a major reshuffle, interim CBI Director Nageswara Rao has transferred around 20 officers, including the investigation officer of the 2G scam case, Vivek Priyadarshi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-china-air-pollution-is-driving-happiness-levels-down-191887">In China, air pollution is driving happiness levels down</a>

Eye-watering, throat-scratching air pollution is a major driver of big city blues in China, according to a study published Monday that matched social network chatter with fine-particle pollution levels.&nbsp;

Ten sailors dead after 2 ships catch fire near Crimea; Indian crewmen may be among casualties Ten sailors have been found dead and 14 rescued after two ships caught fire in the Kerch Strait near Crimea.

Ten sailors dead after 2 ships catch fire near Crimea; Indian crewmen may be among casualties Ten sailors have been found dead and 14 rescued after two ships caught fire in the Kerch Strait near Crimea. Indian crewmen may be among the dead. World is going to miss its 'best chance' of preventing runaway climate change: Study The world is on course to miss its "best chance" of preventing runaway climate change by ensuring global greenhouse gas emissions peak in 2020, researchers warned Tuesday. US govt shutdown enters 2nd month Tuesday, no quick end in sight yet 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. Interim CBI Director Nageswara Rao transfers 20 officers In a major reshuffle, interim CBI Director Nageswara Rao has transferred around 20 officers, including the investigation officer of the 2G scam case, Vivek Priyadarshi. In China, air pollution is driving happiness levels down Eye-watering, throat-scratching air pollution is a major driver of big city blues in China, according to a study published Monday that matched social network chatter with fine-particle pollution levels.

Lady Gaga is the latest celebrity to have called out US President Donald Trump over US government shutdown. The singer took a moment in the middle of her show in Las Vegas on Saturday night to adress the issue and criticised Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.&nbsp; 
 
The incident happened during her performance of ‘Million Reasons’, The Hollywood Reporter posted. She said, “If the f@#$ing president of the United Sates could please put our government back… there are people who live paycheck to paycheck and need their money.” 
 
Gaga also took an aim at Pence, whose wife Karen has been criticised for accepting a job at a school that excludes LGBT children, adding, “And to Mike Pence, who thinks it`s acceptable that his wife works at a school that bans LGBTQ — you`re wrong. You say we should not discriminate against Christianity. You are the worst representation of what it means to be a Christian." 
 
She further added, "I am a Christian woman, and what I do know about Christianity is that we bear no prejudice and everybody is welcome. So you can take all that disgrace, Mr. Pence, and you can look yourself in the mirror and you`ll find it right there." 
 
Gaga is the latest celebrity to have voiced her opinion on the government shutdown. Earlier celebrities like Cardi B, Snoog Dogg, &nbsp;Cher, Mia Farrow and others.&nbsp; 
 
The &nbsp;US government partially shut down on 22 December, 2018 after Republicans, Democrats and the President failed to reach an agreement over the funding for a wall that he has proposed at the US- Mexico border to help curb illegal immigration. 
 
Meanwhile, Lady Gaga won the 2019 Critics` Choice Awards for best actress along with Glenn Close recently. She also took home the Critics` Choice Award for best song for `Shallow'.&nbsp;

Lady Gaga is the latest celebrity to have called out US President Donald Trump over US government shutdown. The singer took a moment in the middle of her show in Las Vegas on Saturday night to adress the issue and criticised Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.

Lady Gaga is the latest celebrity to have called out US President Donald Trump over US government shutdown. The singer took a moment in the middle of her show in Las Vegas on Saturday night to adress the issue and criticised Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. The incident happened during her performance of ‘Million Reasons’, The Hollywood Reporter posted. She said, “If the f@#$ing president of the United Sates could please put our government back… there are people who live paycheck to paycheck and need their money.” Gaga also took an aim at Pence, whose wife Karen has been criticised for accepting a job at a school that excludes LGBT children, adding, “And to Mike Pence, who thinks it`s acceptable that his wife works at a school that bans LGBTQ — you`re wrong. You say we should not discriminate against Christianity. You are the worst representation of what it means to be a Christian." She further added, "I am a Christian woman, and what I do know about Christianity is that we bear no prejudice and everybody is welcome. So you can take all that disgrace, Mr. Pence, and you can look yourself in the mirror and you`ll find it right there." Gaga is the latest celebrity to have voiced her opinion on the government shutdown. Earlier celebrities like Cardi B, Snoog Dogg, Cher, Mia Farrow and others. The US government partially shut down on 22 December, 2018 after Republicans, Democrats and the President failed to reach an agreement over the funding for a wall that he has proposed at the US- Mexico border to help curb illegal immigration. Meanwhile, Lady Gaga won the 2019 Critics` Choice Awards for best actress along with Glenn Close recently. She also took home the Critics` Choice Award for best song for `Shallow'.

Lady Gaga calls out Trump over government shutdown, says Mike Pence is the 'worst representation of a Christian'

The international airport in Miami has been forced to shut down one of its terminals early for three days due to a shortage of security agents sparked by the partial <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/law-enforcement-agencies-squeezed-by-us-government-shutdown-189630">US government shutdown</a> now in its 21st day.

From Saturday through Monday, Terminal G -- one of six at the airport -- will close at 1:00 pm.&nbsp;

"Flights that were previously scheduled to depart from Concourse G this Saturday, Sunday and Monday will be relocated either to Concourse F or Concourse H," airport spokesman Greg Chin told AFP.

At issue is a lack of agents from the US Transportation Security Administration, who are seen as "essential" federal workers and hence are still on the job -- but without pay until the shutdown ends.

Agents are reportedly staging "sickouts" -- calling in sick in a silent protest at their situation. According to The Miami Herald, absenteeism among the Miami airport agents has more than doubled since the shutdown began.

"Right now, there are approximately some 40 employees that are calling in sick from TSA," meaning that "this terminal doesn't have the manpower to accommodate all the passengers," airport spokesman Jack Varela told AFP.

"The airport, the airlines, TSA, customs we are all doing everything possible to make the passengers happy," Varela said.

Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson, the new chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, told the TSA chief in a letter this week that it was "only reasonable to expect officer call outs and resignations to increase the longer the shutdown lasts."

"No employee can be expected to work indefinitely without pay," Thompson said.

With the shutdown soon to drag into its fourth week, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association has reportedly filed a lawsuit against the administration of US President Donald Trump, alleging that members have been "unlawfully" deprived of their wages.

There is no sign of a compromise to end the shutdown so far: Trump is insisting on funding for a wall on the border with Mexico, but opposition Democrats are not budging.

The international airport in Miami has been forced to shut down one of its terminals early for three days due to a shortage of security agents sparked by the partial US government shutdown now in its 21st day.

The international airport in Miami has been forced to shut down one of its terminals early for three days due to a shortage of security agents sparked by the partial US government shutdown now in its 21st day. From Saturday through Monday, Terminal G -- one of six at the airport -- will close at 1:00 pm. "Flights that were previously scheduled to depart from Concourse G this Saturday, Sunday and Monday will be relocated either to Concourse F or Concourse H," airport spokesman Greg Chin told AFP. At issue is a lack of agents from the US Transportation Security Administration, who are seen as "essential" federal workers and hence are still on the job -- but without pay until the shutdown ends. Agents are reportedly staging "sickouts" -- calling in sick in a silent protest at their situation. According to The Miami Herald, absenteeism among the Miami airport agents has more than doubled since the shutdown began. "Right now, there are approximately some 40 employees that are calling in sick from TSA," meaning that "this terminal doesn't have the manpower to accommodate all the passengers," airport spokesman Jack Varela told AFP. "The airport, the airlines, TSA, customs we are all doing everything possible to make the passengers happy," Varela said. Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson, the new chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, told the TSA chief in a letter this week that it was "only reasonable to expect officer call outs and resignations to increase the longer the shutdown lasts." "No employee can be expected to work indefinitely without pay," Thompson said. With the shutdown soon to drag into its fourth week, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association has reportedly filed a lawsuit against the administration of US President Donald Trump, alleging that members have been "unlawfully" deprived of their wages. There is no sign of a compromise to end the shutdown so far: Trump is insisting on funding for a wall on the border with Mexico, but opposition Democrats are not budging.

Miami airport to temporarily close one of its terminals over US government shutdown

A defiant President Donald Trump said Friday he was prepared to keep the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-congress-leaders-set-to-huddle-on-border-wall-government-shutdown-188197">US government shut down</a> for as long as it takes -- months or even years -- to force Congress to provide billions of dollars for a border wall with Mexico.

"This is national security we're talking about. We're not playing games," Trump said following another round of talks at the White House with Democratic leaders on ending the two-week impasse which has shut about 25 per cent of the government.

"The southern border is a dangerous, horrible disaster," he said, decrying illegal immigration, drug smuggling and human trafficking.

"We have to get a structure built," Trump said, calling on Congress to approve his $5.6 billion requests for a "major powerful barrier" made of concrete or steel.

Trump also claimed that some previous US presidents had told him they should have built a wall. None of Trump's predecessors has ever publicly advocated such a thing.

Describing the situation as a "national emergency," Trump said he was looking into ways to get a wall built without congressional approval. "I may do it," he said. "I am allowed to do that."

Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, said Democrats had urged Trump during what he called a "sometimes contentious" meeting to reopen the federal government, which has been partially shut down since December 22 leaving 800,000 employees furloughed or working without pay.&nbsp;

A handful of those employees held a roadside protest in Maryland on Friday, saying they want to get back to work, WTOP radio reported.

"We told the president we needed the government open," Schumer said. "He resisted. In fact, he said he'd keep the government closed for a very long period of time. Months or even years."

Asked by reporters whether this was true, Trump said it was although he added that he hoped the shutdown "doesn't go on even beyond a few more days."

"I will do whatever we have to do," Trump said. "If we have to stay out for a very long period of time we will do that."

Talks over the weekend

Trump said a bipartisan group including Vice President Mike Pence would meet over the weekend to try to reach an agreement.

"Our aim will be to find a solution, not just simply to end the government shutdown, to provide funding to end the crisis at our southern border, to achieve real border security and to build a wall on our southern border," Pence said.

A quick end to the stalemate does not appear to be in sight, however, as Democrats, who now control the House of Representatives, seem in no mood to make concessions.

"We are committed to keeping our borders safe," Nancy Pelosi, who took over as speaker of the House on Thursday, told reporters following the meeting with the president.

But, Pelosi added, "we recognize on the Democratic side that we really cannot resolve this until we open up government.

"And we made that very clear to the president," she said. "Services are being withheld from the American people. Paychecks are being withheld."

Both Democrats and Republicans have attempted to pin the blame for the shutdown on the other side and Pelosi has ruled out funding for a border wall she has described as an "immorality."

Shortly after the new Congress was sworn in on Thursday, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-bills-that-would-end-government-shutdown-without-wall-funds-188145">House approved legislation to fund homeland security operations</a> until February 8 and several other agencies through September -- but no money for a wall.

Trump has said he would veto any bill that does not include funding for the barrier and the Republican-run Senate has said it would not consider anything that does not pass muster with the president.

The fight over the wall is setting the stage for what could be a tumultuous final two years in office for Trump faced with a hostile Democratic-controlled House equipped with investigative powers.

Some newly seated Democrats have even called for impeachment proceedings against the Republican president although Pelosi has distanced herself from those appeals for the time being.

"We talked about (impeachment) today," Trump said. "Nancy said 'We're not looking to impeach you.'"

Trump also sought to defend his record saying "you don't impeach people when they're doing a good job."

'We have to get a structure built,' Trump said, calling on Congress to approve his $5.6 billion requests for a 'major powerful barrier' made of concrete or steel.

A defiant President Donald Trump said Friday he was prepared to keep the US government shut down for as long as it takes -- months or even years -- to force Congress to provide billions of dollars for a border wall with Mexico. "This is national security we're talking about. We're not playing games," Trump said following another round of talks at the White House with Democratic leaders on ending the two-week impasse which has shut about 25 per cent of the government. "The southern border is a dangerous, horrible disaster," he said, decrying illegal immigration, drug smuggling and human trafficking. "We have to get a structure built," Trump said, calling on Congress to approve his $5.6 billion requests for a "major powerful barrier" made of concrete or steel. Trump also claimed that some previous US presidents had told him they should have built a wall. None of Trump's predecessors has ever publicly advocated such a thing. Describing the situation as a "national emergency," Trump said he was looking into ways to get a wall built without congressional approval. "I may do it," he said. "I am allowed to do that." Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, said Democrats had urged Trump during what he called a "sometimes contentious" meeting to reopen the federal government, which has been partially shut down since December 22 leaving 800,000 employees furloughed or working without pay. A handful of those employees held a roadside protest in Maryland on Friday, saying they want to get back to work, WTOP radio reported. "We told the president we needed the government open," Schumer said. "He resisted. In fact, he said he'd keep the government closed for a very long period of time. Months or even years." Asked by reporters whether this was true, Trump said it was although he added that he hoped the shutdown "doesn't go on even beyond a few more days." "I will do whatever we have to do," Trump said. "If we have to stay out for a very long period of time we will do that." Talks over the weekend Trump said a bipartisan group including Vice President Mike Pence would meet over the weekend to try to reach an agreement. "Our aim will be to find a solution, not just simply to end the government shutdown, to provide funding to end the crisis at our southern border, to achieve real border security and to build a wall on our southern border," Pence said. A quick end to the stalemate does not appear to be in sight, however, as Democrats, who now control the House of Representatives, seem in no mood to make concessions. "We are committed to keeping our borders safe," Nancy Pelosi, who took over as speaker of the House on Thursday, told reporters following the meeting with the president. But, Pelosi added, "we recognize on the Democratic side that we really cannot resolve this until we open up government. "And we made that very clear to the president," she said. "Services are being withheld from the American people. Paychecks are being withheld." Both Democrats and Republicans have attempted to pin the blame for the shutdown on the other side and Pelosi has ruled out funding for a border wall she has described as an "immorality." Shortly after the new Congress was sworn in on Thursday, the House approved legislation to fund homeland security operations until February 8 and several other agencies through September -- but no money for a wall. Trump has said he would veto any bill that does not include funding for the barrier and the Republican-run Senate has said it would not consider anything that does not pass muster with the president. The fight over the wall is setting the stage for what could be a tumultuous final two years in office for Trump faced with a hostile Democratic-controlled House equipped with investigative powers. Some newly seated Democrats have even called for impeachment proceedings against the Republican president although Pelosi has distanced herself from those appeals for the time being. "We talked about (impeachment) today," Trump said. "Nancy said 'We're not looking to impeach you.'" Trump also sought to defend his record saying "you don't impeach people when they're doing a good job."

Ready to shut government for months or even years: Trump

As the US government shutdown continued <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/not-concerned-about-being-impeached-trump-183372">with impeachment fears</a> hanging in the air, President Trump in a tweet said the Democrats want&nbsp;to impeach him because they can't win the next US elections.

"They only want to impeach me because they know they can’t win in 2020," the president said, adding,"As I have stated many times, if the Democrats take over the House or Senate, there will be disruption to the financial markets. We won the Senate, they won the House. Things will settle down."

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As I have stated many times, if the Democrats take over the House or Senate, there will be disruption to the Financial Markets. We won the Senate, they won the House. Things will settle down. They only want to impeach me because they know they can’t win in 2020, too much success!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1081175076727345152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump's latest jibe at the Democrats comes as Democrat Nancy Pelosi, 78, was elected on Thursday to be the new speaker of the US House of Representatives as the party took majority control of the House.

The Democrats have vowed to open new fronts against the US president including in-depth investigations of his administration.

However, a defiant Trump said: "How do you impeach a president who has won perhaps the greatest election of all time, done nothing wrong (no Collusion with Russia, it was the Dems that colluded), had the most successful first two years of any president," adding further that "and is the most popular Republican in party history 93%?"

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How do you impeach a president who has won perhaps the greatest election of all time, done nothing wrong (no Collusion with Russia, it was the Dems that Colluded), had the most successful first two years of any president, and is the most popular Republican in party history 93%?
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1081177511592108032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The US Congress is still divided over Trump's Mexico border wall as the shutdown of the government agencies which began on December 21st entered the third&nbsp;week in Washington.

Both parties failed to reach an agreement which affects nine cabinet-level departments and several agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, transportation, interior, agriculture, state and justice, as well as national parks and forests.

The House of Representatives was set to vote on the latest funding bill on Thursday afternoon to end the government shutdown, but put it off till Friday. The Democrats said the new bill will exclude Trump's request for $5 billion for funding US-Mexico border wall.

President Trump is set to convene a meeting on Saturday to discuss the border wall budget and find a way to end the partial shutdown of US government agencies.

As the US government shutdown continued with impeachment fears hanging in the air, President Trump in a tweet said the Democrats want to impeach him because they can't win the next US elections.

As the US government shutdown continued with impeachment fears hanging in the air, President Trump in a tweet said the Democrats want to impeach him because they can't win the next US elections. "They only want to impeach me because they know they can’t win in 2020," the president said, adding,"As I have stated many times, if the Democrats take over the House or Senate, there will be disruption to the financial markets. We won the Senate, they won the House. Things will settle down." As I have stated many times, if the Democrats take over the House or Senate, there will be disruption to the Financial Markets. We won the Senate, they won the House. Things will settle down. They only want to impeach me because they know they can’t win in 2020, too much success! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2019 × Trump's latest jibe at the Democrats comes as Democrat Nancy Pelosi, 78, was elected on Thursday to be the new speaker of the US House of Representatives as the party took majority control of the House. The Democrats have vowed to open new fronts against the US president including in-depth investigations of his administration. However, a defiant Trump said: "How do you impeach a president who has won perhaps the greatest election of all time, done nothing wrong (no Collusion with Russia, it was the Dems that colluded), had the most successful first two years of any president," adding further that "and is the most popular Republican in party history 93%?" How do you impeach a president who has won perhaps the greatest election of all time, done nothing wrong (no Collusion with Russia, it was the Dems that Colluded), had the most successful first two years of any president, and is the most popular Republican in party history 93%? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2019 × The US Congress is still divided over Trump's Mexico border wall as the shutdown of the government agencies which began on December 21st entered the third week in Washington. Both parties failed to reach an agreement which affects nine cabinet-level departments and several agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, transportation, interior, agriculture, state and justice, as well as national parks and forests. The House of Representatives was set to vote on the latest funding bill on Thursday afternoon to end the government shutdown, but put it off till Friday. The Democrats said the new bill will exclude Trump's request for $5 billion for funding US-Mexico border wall. President Trump is set to convene a meeting on Saturday to discuss the border wall budget and find a way to end the partial shutdown of US government agencies.

Democrats want to impeach me because they know they can’t win 2020 elections, tweets Trump

President Donald Trump on Tuesday invited Republican and Democratic leaders from Congress for a meeting to seek an end to the federal government shutdown now in its second week.

The two sides have appeared at an impasse, with Trump's Democratic foes seeking a vote on spending bills to keep the government open -- without addressing the hot-button issue of border wall funding -- as soon as they take control of the House of Representatives, on Thursday.&nbsp;

But the legislation's future appears uncertain, as it does not contain funding for a wall along the US-Mexico border, as demanded by Trump.

But Trump appeared to strike a more conciliatory tone seeking to bring Democrats to the table after acerbic remarks over the weekend.

"Border Security and the Wall 'thing' and Shutdown is not where Nancy Pelosi wanted to start her tenure as Speaker! Let's make a deal?" he tweeted.

Pelosi is set to become House speaker on Thursday.

At the same time, Trump characterized their opposition to the wall as embracing "Open Borders and all of the crime and drugs that Open Borders bring!"

US media reported the lawmakers were invited to a session at the White House, though it was unclear who would attend, and whether any Democrats would be present.

Democrats say the wall idea -- one of the president's key election campaign platforms -- is a distraction from more complicated immigration problems and a tool for Trump to whip up support among his conservative base.

They are proposing to pass most administrative budgets lasting through September 30, while only financing until February 8 the thornier budget of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees border security.

Trump expressed outrage at the idea.

"The Democrats, much as I suspected, have allocated no money for a new Wall. So imaginative! The problem is, without a Wall there can be no real Border Security - and our Country must finally have a Strong and Secure Southern Border!" he wrote on Twitter.

US media reported the lawmakers were invited to a session at the White House, though it was unclear who would attend, and whether any Democrats would be present.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday invited Republican and Democratic leaders from Congress for a meeting to seek an end to the federal government shutdown now in its second week. The two sides have appeared at an impasse, with Trump's Democratic foes seeking a vote on spending bills to keep the government open -- without addressing the hot-button issue of border wall funding -- as soon as they take control of the House of Representatives, on Thursday. But the legislation's future appears uncertain, as it does not contain funding for a wall along the US-Mexico border, as demanded by Trump. But Trump appeared to strike a more conciliatory tone seeking to bring Democrats to the table after acerbic remarks over the weekend. "Border Security and the Wall 'thing' and Shutdown is not where Nancy Pelosi wanted to start her tenure as Speaker! Let's make a deal?" he tweeted. Pelosi is set to become House speaker on Thursday. At the same time, Trump characterized their opposition to the wall as embracing "Open Borders and all of the crime and drugs that Open Borders bring!" US media reported the lawmakers were invited to a session at the White House, though it was unclear who would attend, and whether any Democrats would be present. Democrats say the wall idea -- one of the president's key election campaign platforms -- is a distraction from more complicated immigration problems and a tool for Trump to whip up support among his conservative base. They are proposing to pass most administrative budgets lasting through September 30, while only financing until February 8 the thornier budget of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees border security. Trump expressed outrage at the idea. "The Democrats, much as I suspected, have allocated no money for a new Wall. So imaginative! The problem is, without a Wall there can be no real Border Security - and our Country must finally have a Strong and Secure Southern Border!" he wrote on Twitter.

Trump seeks to end government shutdown, calls for meeting with US Congress

A partial US government shutdown was widely expected to continue after Congress reconvenes on Thursday, with lawmakers split over President Donald Trump's demand for $5 billion in taxpayer funding for a proposed Mexican border wall.

The Senate and the House of Representatives were set to meet at 4 pm EST (2100 GMT) on the sixth day of the shutdown and resume debating ways to end it. That will include Senate consideration of a measure already approved by the Republican-controlled House that meets Trump's wall-funding demand.

For that bill to move forward in the 100-seat Senate, it would need 60 votes. Republicans will control 53 seats in 2019, so they will try to convince some Democrats to back it.

But Democrats largely oppose Trump's proposed wall. They have offered support for $1.3 billion in general border security funding. It was not clear if some compromise could be struck between that offer and Trump's demand.

Over the weekend, White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said the White House had made a counter-offer to Democrats on border security. Media reports said Vice President Mike Pence had proposed $2.1 billion in funding.

Trump said on Wednesday, on a surprise visit to Iraq, that he could wait to get his wall funded. Asked how long that wait might last, he said, "Whatever it takes."

After weeks of failed talks between Trump and congressional leaders, parts of the US&nbsp;government shut down on Saturday, affecting about 800,000 employees of the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture, Commerce and other agencies.

Most of the federal government, which directly employs almost 4 million people, is unaffected. The Defense, Energy, Labor and other departments are funded through September 30.

Even agencies that are affected never totally close, with workers deemed "essential" still performing their duties.

"Non-essential" federal workers at unfunded agencies are on furlough and staying home. Both they and essential employees will not get paychecks after December until the shutdown ends.

The 435-seat House was also set to reopen on Thursday.

"We continue to believe that it is unlikely that Congress will come up with a deal to end the current partial shutdown until well into January," said financial firm Height Securities in a commentary note on Wednesday.

On January 3, the 2017-18 Congress will be replaced by the 2019-20 Congress and control of the House will switch to the Democrats from the Republicans. At that time, Representative Nancy Pelosi is expected to take over as House speaker.

She has vowed swift action to fully reopen the government. Barring some sort of deal in the interim, House Democrats expect to vote on a funding bill on January 3, said a Democratic aide.

Details of the upcoming House bill were unclear, but it was unlikely to include wall funding, like an earlier Senate measure. If such a bill were to pass the House and again win support in the Senate, it would go next to Trump.

At that point, he could face a politically difficult choice - back down on his full wall-funding demand or veto the bill and single-handedly extend the partial shutdown.

If he chose the latter, putting his personal stamp on the shutdown, Congress might then move to override his veto, but that would take a two-thirds vote in both the Senate and the House, a challenging hurdle for lawmakers.

The Senate and the House of Representatives were set to meet at 4 pm EST (2100 GMT) on the sixth day of the shutdown and resume debating ways to end it.

A partial US government shutdown was widely expected to continue after Congress reconvenes on Thursday, with lawmakers split over President Donald Trump's demand for $5 billion in taxpayer funding for a proposed Mexican border wall. The Senate and the House of Representatives were set to meet at 4 pm EST (2100 GMT) on the sixth day of the shutdown and resume debating ways to end it. That will include Senate consideration of a measure already approved by the Republican-controlled House that meets Trump's wall-funding demand. For that bill to move forward in the 100-seat Senate, it would need 60 votes. Republicans will control 53 seats in 2019, so they will try to convince some Democrats to back it. But Democrats largely oppose Trump's proposed wall. They have offered support for $1.3 billion in general border security funding. It was not clear if some compromise could be struck between that offer and Trump's demand. Over the weekend, White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said the White House had made a counter-offer to Democrats on border security. Media reports said Vice President Mike Pence had proposed $2.1 billion in funding. Trump said on Wednesday, on a surprise visit to Iraq, that he could wait to get his wall funded. Asked how long that wait might last, he said, "Whatever it takes." After weeks of failed talks between Trump and congressional leaders, parts of the US government shut down on Saturday, affecting about 800,000 employees of the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture, Commerce and other agencies. Most of the federal government, which directly employs almost 4 million people, is unaffected. The Defense, Energy, Labor and other departments are funded through September 30. Even agencies that are affected never totally close, with workers deemed "essential" still performing their duties. "Non-essential" federal workers at unfunded agencies are on furlough and staying home. Both they and essential employees will not get paychecks after December until the shutdown ends. The 435-seat House was also set to reopen on Thursday. "We continue to believe that it is unlikely that Congress will come up with a deal to end the current partial shutdown until well into January," said financial firm Height Securities in a commentary note on Wednesday. On January 3, the 2017-18 Congress will be replaced by the 2019-20 Congress and control of the House will switch to the Democrats from the Republicans. At that time, Representative Nancy Pelosi is expected to take over as House speaker. She has vowed swift action to fully reopen the government. Barring some sort of deal in the interim, House Democrats expect to vote on a funding bill on January 3, said a Democratic aide. Details of the upcoming House bill were unclear, but it was unlikely to include wall funding, like an earlier Senate measure. If such a bill were to pass the House and again win support in the Senate, it would go next to Trump. At that point, he could face a politically difficult choice - back down on his full wall-funding demand or veto the bill and single-handedly extend the partial shutdown. If he chose the latter, putting his personal stamp on the shutdown, Congress might then move to override his veto, but that would take a two-thirds vote in both the Senate and the House, a challenging hurdle for lawmakers.

Explainer: How partial shutdown of US government could play out

US Government shutdown enters 3rd day

Wall Street was heading for another rout early Monday amid turmoil in Washington, with the Dow losing as much as two per cent after its worst week since the 2008 financial crisis.

At 1525 GMT, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was at 22,124.44, down 1.4 per cent after earlier sliding two per cent.

The broad-based S&amp;P 500 fell 1.3 per cent to 2,384.14, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index shed 1.0 per cent to 6,270.13.

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The only problem our economy has is the Fed. They don’t have a feel for the Market, they don’t understand necessary Trade Wars or Strong Dollars or even Democrat Shutdowns over Borders. The Fed is like a powerful golfer who can’t score because he has no touch - he can’t putt!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1077231267559755776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The declines came as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnunchin was set to hold a telephone conference with top US market regulators, another effort to reassure market that analysts say may be backfiring.

On Sunday, the Treasury leader announced that he phoned top executives of the nation's six largest banks and confirmed they have adequate liquidity.

But the statement "was not especially comforting, however, given that investors had not generally been questioning market functioning in recent days, despite large declines," said a note from Wells Fargo.

The Treasury Secretary on Saturday released a statement on Twitter quoting US President Donald Trump as denying any plans to&nbsp;fire Fed Chairman Jay Powell following media reports that Trump had privately asked cabinet members if he has the authority to dismiss the Fed chief.

"It might be more reassuring if Trump himself tweeted these comments, but then again Trump has demonstrated his propensity to flip-flop on issues as he did with his stance on the current government shutdown," said a note from Oxford Economics.

"If Trump tries to remove Powell, it could throw the financial markets into deep chaos that makes the current market turmoil look tame."

Last week was the Dow and Nasdaq's worst since the 2008 financial crisis.&nbsp;

Key drivers included upset at the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hike, the shock resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, the ongoing US-China trade war and a US government shutdown triggered Friday at midnight following unsuccessful budget negotiations between President Donald Trump and congressional Democrats.

Monday's session will close at midday ahead of Tuesday's Christmas holiday when markets will be closed. Volume was expected to be light, which could sharpen trading moves.

Wall Street was heading for another rout early Monday amid turmoil in Washington, with the Dow losing as much as two per cent after its worst week since the 2008 financial crisis.

Wall Street was heading for another rout early Monday amid turmoil in Washington, with the Dow losing as much as two per cent after its worst week since the 2008 financial crisis. At 1525 GMT, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was at 22,124.44, down 1.4 per cent after earlier sliding two per cent. The broad-based S&P 500 fell 1.3 per cent to 2,384.14, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index shed 1.0 per cent to 6,270.13. The only problem our economy has is the Fed. They don’t have a feel for the Market, they don’t understand necessary Trade Wars or Strong Dollars or even Democrat Shutdowns over Borders. The Fed is like a powerful golfer who can’t score because he has no touch - he can’t putt! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 24, 2018 × The declines came as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnunchin was set to hold a telephone conference with top US market regulators, another effort to reassure market that analysts say may be backfiring. On Sunday, the Treasury leader announced that he phoned top executives of the nation's six largest banks and confirmed they have adequate liquidity. But the statement "was not especially comforting, however, given that investors had not generally been questioning market functioning in recent days, despite large declines," said a note from Wells Fargo. The Treasury Secretary on Saturday released a statement on Twitter quoting US President Donald Trump as denying any plans to fire Fed Chairman Jay Powell following media reports that Trump had privately asked cabinet members if he has the authority to dismiss the Fed chief. "It might be more reassuring if Trump himself tweeted these comments, but then again Trump has demonstrated his propensity to flip-flop on issues as he did with his stance on the current government shutdown," said a note from Oxford Economics. "If Trump tries to remove Powell, it could throw the financial markets into deep chaos that makes the current market turmoil look tame." Last week was the Dow and Nasdaq's worst since the 2008 financial crisis. Key drivers included upset at the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hike, the shock resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, the ongoing US-China trade war and a US government shutdown triggered Friday at midnight following unsuccessful budget negotiations between President Donald Trump and congressional Democrats. Monday's session will close at midday ahead of Tuesday's Christmas holiday when markets will be closed. Volume was expected to be light, which could sharpen trading moves.

Wall Street stocks continue to slide over US government shutdown

The partial US government shutdown is set to stretch on through Christmas as Congress adjourned Saturday with no deal in sight to end the impasse over funding for Donald Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border.

Due to the shutdown -- which saw several key US agencies cease operations at 12:01 am (0501 GMT) Saturday -- Trump said that he would remain in Washington over Christmas instead of going to Florida.

"I am in the White House, working hard," the Republican president tweeted Saturday morning. "We are negotiating with the Democrats on desperately needed Border Security (Gangs, Drugs, Human Trafficking &amp; more) but it could be a long stay."

Trump has dug in on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/standoff-over-trump-wall-leaves-us-govt-5-days-away-from-shutdown-184833">his demand for $5 billion for construction of the wall</a> on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal meant federal funds for dozens of agencies lapsed at midnight Friday.

The House of Representatives and the Senate held sessions on Saturday, but both chambers adjourned without a deal being reached, and no votes were expected until December 27.

Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer blasted the president and blamed him for provoking the shutdown: "President Trump, if you want to open the government abandon the wall, plain and simple."

"The Trump shutdown isn't over border security; it's because President Trump is demanding billions of dollars for an expensive, ineffective wall that the majority of Americans don't support."

Most critical US security functions remain operational, but 800,000 federal workers are impacted, with many furloughed just days before Christmas while others deemed essential are working unpaid.

And as many other Americans and tourists began their end-of-the year holidays some national parks have shuttered completely, while others remain open but without any visitor services including restrooms and maintenance.&nbsp;

New York's governor provided funding to the Statue of Liberty monument and Ellis Island so those key attractions could remain open.

'Dereliction of duty' 
It remains unclear how long the shutdown will last, with Washington unable to accomplish one of its most basic tasks -- keeping the government up and running.

"This is a dereliction of duty by Congress and the president," said David Cox, national president of the American Federation of Government Employees.

Trump's own Republican party still controls both the House and Senate, but in January the House comes under Democratic control.

Governor Ralph Northam of Virginia -- a state bordering the US capital that is home to many federal workers -- urged Trump in a letter Saturday to push immediate action to end the shutdown, saying it "inflicts real harm" on workers.

"I share your desire for strong economic growth throughout the United States, but the current partial government shutdown makes it harder to achieve this goal," the Democratic governor said.

About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 percent unfunded as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State.

Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker.&nbsp;

One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP.

'No agreement' 
But conservatives in the House would likely balk at that figure.

"There's no agreement," congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side.

"There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable."

Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration.

It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign.

Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal.

With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president stick to his campaign promises, Trump would not budge on his wall.

The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding, and $7.8 billion in disaster relief.

But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate.

The partial US government shutdown is set to stretch on through Christmas as Congress adjourned Saturday with no deal in sight to end the impasse over funding for Donald Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border.

The partial US government shutdown is set to stretch on through Christmas as Congress adjourned Saturday with no deal in sight to end the impasse over funding for Donald Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border. Due to the shutdown -- which saw several key US agencies cease operations at 12:01 am (0501 GMT) Saturday -- Trump said that he would remain in Washington over Christmas instead of going to Florida. "I am in the White House, working hard," the Republican president tweeted Saturday morning. "We are negotiating with the Democrats on desperately needed Border Security (Gangs, Drugs, Human Trafficking & more) but it could be a long stay." Trump has dug in on his demand for $5 billion for construction of the wall on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal meant federal funds for dozens of agencies lapsed at midnight Friday. The House of Representatives and the Senate held sessions on Saturday, but both chambers adjourned without a deal being reached, and no votes were expected until December 27. Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer blasted the president and blamed him for provoking the shutdown: "President Trump, if you want to open the government abandon the wall, plain and simple." "The Trump shutdown isn't over border security; it's because President Trump is demanding billions of dollars for an expensive, ineffective wall that the majority of Americans don't support." Most critical US security functions remain operational, but 800,000 federal workers are impacted, with many furloughed just days before Christmas while others deemed essential are working unpaid. And as many other Americans and tourists began their end-of-the year holidays some national parks have shuttered completely, while others remain open but without any visitor services including restrooms and maintenance. New York's governor provided funding to the Statue of Liberty monument and Ellis Island so those key attractions could remain open. 'Dereliction of duty' It remains unclear how long the shutdown will last, with Washington unable to accomplish one of its most basic tasks -- keeping the government up and running. "This is a dereliction of duty by Congress and the president," said David Cox, national president of the American Federation of Government Employees. Trump's own Republican party still controls both the House and Senate, but in January the House comes under Democratic control. Governor Ralph Northam of Virginia -- a state bordering the US capital that is home to many federal workers -- urged Trump in a letter Saturday to push immediate action to end the shutdown, saying it "inflicts real harm" on workers. "I share your desire for strong economic growth throughout the United States, but the current partial government shutdown makes it harder to achieve this goal," the Democratic governor said. About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 percent unfunded as of Saturday. Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State. Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker. One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP. 'No agreement' But conservatives in the House would likely balk at that figure. "There's no agreement," congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side. "There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable." Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration. It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign. Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal. With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president stick to his campaign promises, Trump would not budge on his wall. The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding, and $7.8 billion in disaster relief. But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate.

Partial US government shutdown set to last through Christmas

The US government will begin a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/standoff-over-trump-wall-leaves-us-govt-5-days-away-from-shutdown-184833">Christmastime shutdown </a>at midnight, as Congress adjourned Friday without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall.

Operations for several key agencies will cease at 12:01 am Saturday, despite last-ditch talks that continued on Capitol Hill between White House officials and congressional leaders in both parties.

Trump has dug in on his demand for $5 billion for construction of a wall on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal means federal funds for dozens of agencies will lapse when the clock strikes twelve.

It remained unclear how long the shutdown will last, but Trump expressed hope late Friday night that it "will not last long," after earlier saying he was ready for just that.

The optics are bad, as 800,000 federal employees will be either furloughed or forced to work without pay in the run-up to the Christmas holiday.

But the prospect of a large portion of government workers going without paychecks was not enough to spur lawmakers or the president to action.

The House of Representatives adjourned just before 7:00 pm (2300 GMT) Friday, with no moves taken to avert a shutdown, and the Senate closed up shop an hour later.&nbsp;

Both are due back in session at noon Saturday.

About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 per cent unfunded as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State.

National parks will remain open, but most park staff will stay at home.&nbsp;

While most critical security functions will be operational, the effects of the budget wrangling and uncertainty have cast an air of chaos over the capital, which is also reeling from the resignation announcement Thursday by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

Wall Street ended its worst week in a decade with more bruising losses Friday.

And the inability of Washington to accomplish one of its most basic tasks -- keeping the government up and running -- has caused deep embarrassment and anxiety.

'Prepared' for shutdown

"It's up to the Democrats whether or not we have a shutdown tonight," Trump said earlier Friday, blaming political opponents for the crisis.

"I hope we don't," the president added, but "we're totally prepared for a very long shutdown."

Senators told reporters that congressional leaders from both parties were negotiating behind the scenes with White House officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and incoming chief of staff Mick Mulvaney.

The power trio shuttled from one side of the Capitol to the other, seeking a breakthrough with Republicans and Democrats.&nbsp;

It did not come on Friday.

Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker.&nbsp;

"Now Republicans and Democrats both own the success or failure to fund government."

One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP.

But conservatives in the House would likely baulk at that figure.

"There's no agreement," Congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side.

"There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable."

Cornyn suggested the art of the deal was less about grandstanding and more about a logical compromise to break the impasse.

"The House is at five (billion dollars for border security), the Democrats are at zero," he said. "It doesn't sound like that's rocket science to come up with a figure."

'Hostage'&nbsp;

Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration.

It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign.

Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal.

"This #shutdown is brought to you by @POTUS &amp; @HouseGOP," Congresswoman Kathleen Rice tweeted. "Instead of passing the Senate's funding bill, they decided to hold this country hostage."

With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president sticks to his campaign promises, Trump doubled down on his wall.

The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding and $7.8 billion in disaster relief.

But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate.

Trump was scheduled to fly to Florida Friday for his Christmas break, but he postponed the trip to help salvage a deal.

The US government will begin a Christmastime shutdown at midnight, as Congress adjourned Friday without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall.

The US government will begin a Christmastime shutdown at midnight, as Congress adjourned Friday without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall. Operations for several key agencies will cease at 12:01 am Saturday, despite last-ditch talks that continued on Capitol Hill between White House officials and congressional leaders in both parties. Trump has dug in on his demand for $5 billion for construction of a wall on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal means federal funds for dozens of agencies will lapse when the clock strikes twelve. It remained unclear how long the shutdown will last, but Trump expressed hope late Friday night that it "will not last long," after earlier saying he was ready for just that. The optics are bad, as 800,000 federal employees will be either furloughed or forced to work without pay in the run-up to the Christmas holiday. But the prospect of a large portion of government workers going without paychecks was not enough to spur lawmakers or the president to action. The House of Representatives adjourned just before 7:00 pm (2300 GMT) Friday, with no moves taken to avert a shutdown, and the Senate closed up shop an hour later. Both are due back in session at noon Saturday. About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 per cent unfunded as of Saturday. Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State. National parks will remain open, but most park staff will stay at home. While most critical security functions will be operational, the effects of the budget wrangling and uncertainty have cast an air of chaos over the capital, which is also reeling from the resignation announcement Thursday by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. Wall Street ended its worst week in a decade with more bruising losses Friday. And the inability of Washington to accomplish one of its most basic tasks -- keeping the government up and running -- has caused deep embarrassment and anxiety. 'Prepared' for shutdown "It's up to the Democrats whether or not we have a shutdown tonight," Trump said earlier Friday, blaming political opponents for the crisis. "I hope we don't," the president added, but "we're totally prepared for a very long shutdown." Senators told reporters that congressional leaders from both parties were negotiating behind the scenes with White House officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and incoming chief of staff Mick Mulvaney. The power trio shuttled from one side of the Capitol to the other, seeking a breakthrough with Republicans and Democrats. It did not come on Friday. Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker. "Now Republicans and Democrats both own the success or failure to fund government." One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP. But conservatives in the House would likely baulk at that figure. "There's no agreement," Congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side. "There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable." Cornyn suggested the art of the deal was less about grandstanding and more about a logical compromise to break the impasse. "The House is at five (billion dollars for border security), the Democrats are at zero," he said. "It doesn't sound like that's rocket science to come up with a figure." 'Hostage' Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration. It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign. Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal. "This #shutdown is brought to you by @POTUS & @HouseGOP," Congresswoman Kathleen Rice tweeted. "Instead of passing the Senate's funding bill, they decided to hold this country hostage." With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president sticks to his campaign promises, Trump doubled down on his wall. The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding and $7.8 billion in disaster relief. But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate. Trump was scheduled to fly to Florida Friday for his Christmas break, but he postponed the trip to help salvage a deal.

US government shuts down at midnight as House adjourns with no deal

A threatened <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-refuses-to-sign-us-government-shutdown-legislation-over-mexico-wall-funding-185571">shutdown </a>of the US government would see hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed and many more working without pay.

President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pressures-democrats-warns-government-may-close-for-very-long-time-185701">Donald Trump </a>warned Friday that a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-shuts-down-at-midnight-as-house-adjourns-with-no-deal-185738">shutdown</a> could last a "very long time" unless Democrats in the Senate join Republicans and approve funding for the border wall with Mexico.

Unless a last-minute deal is reached the <a href="http://13.232.42.114/business-economy/wall-street-stocks-slump-over-us-government-shutdown-fears-185583">government will shut down</a> at midnight (0500 GMT Saturday).

According to Democrats in the House and Senate, a shutdown would impact about 800,000 of the 2.1 million federal employees in the United States.

Some 380,000 federal workers would be furloughed — put on unpaid leave — including 52,000 employees of the Internal Revenue Service.

Some 80 per cent of the employees of the National Park Service would also be sent home, along with 96 per cent of NASA workers and 86 per cent of the Commerce Department.

Another 420,000 workers considered essential personnel would work without pay including 41,000 federal law enforcement and correctional officers and others such as aviation and postal workers.

The departments impacted would include homeland security, transport, commerce, state, agriculture, interior, treasury and housing and urban development.

Others such as the Defense Department, Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services have already received funding and would be spared.

No visitor services would be provided at tourist attractions such as the nation's national parks, which are frequently visited over the Christmas holidays.

During the last shutdown, the Statue of Liberty was closed for two days before the state of New York decided to pony up the money necessary to keep it open.

The Smithsonian in Washington said that in the event of a shutdown, it had enough in reserve to keep its museums open through January 1.

There have been a number of government shutdowns in recent years including one which lasted three days under Trump in January.

An October 2013 shutdown lasted 16 days while one in 1995-96 lasted a record 21 days.

One person who would not be the victim of the shutdown is Special Counsel Robert Mueller, the target of Trump's frequent ire.

Mueller's team, which is investigating whether Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to get him elected, will continue working.

A threatened shutdown of the US government would see hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed and many more working without pay. President Donald Trump warned Friday that a shutdown could last a "very long time" unless Democrats in the Senate join Republicans and approve funding for the border wall with Mexico.

A threatened shutdown of the US government would see hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed and many more working without pay. President Donald Trump warned Friday that a shutdown could last a "very long time" unless Democrats in the Senate join Republicans and approve funding for the border wall with Mexico. Unless a last-minute deal is reached the government will shut down at midnight (0500 GMT Saturday). According to Democrats in the House and Senate, a shutdown would impact about 800,000 of the 2.1 million federal employees in the United States. Some 380,000 federal workers would be furloughed — put on unpaid leave — including 52,000 employees of the Internal Revenue Service. Some 80 per cent of the employees of the National Park Service would also be sent home, along with 96 per cent of NASA workers and 86 per cent of the Commerce Department. Another 420,000 workers considered essential personnel would work without pay including 41,000 federal law enforcement and correctional officers and others such as aviation and postal workers. The departments impacted would include homeland security, transport, commerce, state, agriculture, interior, treasury and housing and urban development. Others such as the Defense Department, Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services have already received funding and would be spared. No visitor services would be provided at tourist attractions such as the nation's national parks, which are frequently visited over the Christmas holidays. During the last shutdown, the Statue of Liberty was closed for two days before the state of New York decided to pony up the money necessary to keep it open. The Smithsonian in Washington said that in the event of a shutdown, it had enough in reserve to keep its museums open through January 1. There have been a number of government shutdowns in recent years including one which lasted three days under Trump in January. An October 2013 shutdown lasted 16 days while one in 1995-96 lasted a record 21 days. One person who would not be the victim of the shutdown is Special Counsel Robert Mueller, the target of Trump's frequent ire. Mueller's team, which is investigating whether Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to get him elected, will continue working.

US government shutdown would affect 800,000 federal employees

Wall Street suffered its second straight rout Thursday as worries about a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-refuses-to-sign-us-government-shutdown-legislation-over-mexico-wall-funding-185571">US government shutdown added</a> to upset at the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hike.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 2.0 per cent lower at 22,859.60, a loss of 460 points.

The broad-based S&amp;P 500 slid 1.6 per cent to 2,467.42, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index slumped 1.6 per cent to 6,528.41.

A bruising December has set up Wall Street for its worst year since the financial crisis. The S&amp;P 500 is currently down 7.7 per cent for the year and the Nasdaq is on the verge of a "bear market," which is a drop of 20 per cent from its peak this year.

The latest pullback came after Republican congressional leaders told reporters President Donald Trump would not sign a stopgap spending bill because it does not contain border wall funding.

The US government only has funding to operate through December 21, and without an agreement will have to shut down.

Trump's rejection sent lawmakers scrambling for a new compromise, although Democrats have stood firm saying they will not support a spending measure that funds Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border.

The revived possibility of a shutdown worsened the downbeat mood on markets after the Federal Reserve announced another interest rate hike on Wednesday and made only subtle adjustments to the course of monetary policy tightening next year despite rising worries about global growth and a big pullback in the stock market.

Analysts also said the US indictment of two Chinese hackers tied to Beijing's security services reminded investors of the unsettled state of US-China trade relations.

"We have a trade war, the economy weakening, and now the possibility of a shutdown," said Peter Cardillo of Spartan Capital Securities. "All that is feeding by itself." 
&nbsp;

Wall Street suffered its second straight rout Thursday as worries about a US government shutdown added to upset at the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hike.

Wall Street suffered its second straight rout Thursday as worries about a US government shutdown added to upset at the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hike. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 2.0 per cent lower at 22,859.60, a loss of 460 points. The broad-based S&P 500 slid 1.6 per cent to 2,467.42, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index slumped 1.6 per cent to 6,528.41. A bruising December has set up Wall Street for its worst year since the financial crisis. The S&P 500 is currently down 7.7 per cent for the year and the Nasdaq is on the verge of a "bear market," which is a drop of 20 per cent from its peak this year. The latest pullback came after Republican congressional leaders told reporters President Donald Trump would not sign a stopgap spending bill because it does not contain border wall funding. The US government only has funding to operate through December 21, and without an agreement will have to shut down. Trump's rejection sent lawmakers scrambling for a new compromise, although Democrats have stood firm saying they will not support a spending measure that funds Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border. The revived possibility of a shutdown worsened the downbeat mood on markets after the Federal Reserve announced another interest rate hike on Wednesday and made only subtle adjustments to the course of monetary policy tightening next year despite rising worries about global growth and a big pullback in the stock market. Analysts also said the US indictment of two Chinese hackers tied to Beijing's security services reminded investors of the unsettled state of US-China trade relations. "We have a trade war, the economy weakening, and now the possibility of a shutdown," said Peter Cardillo of Spartan Capital Securities. "All that is feeding by itself."

Wall Street stocks slump over US government shutdown fears

US President Donald Trump stood firm <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-approves-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown-excludes-mexico-border-wall-funding-185405">on Thursday after refusing to sign</a> a stopgap spending bill because it does not contain border wall funding, leaving lawmakers scrambling to avoid a government shutdown before Christmas.

Trump's rejection of a measure that unanimously passed the Senate and was under consideration in the House plunged Washington into political chaos 36 hours before a midnight Friday deadline that sees funding expire for key agencies.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
With so much talk about the Wall, people are losing sight of the great job being done on our Southern Border by Border Patrol, ICE and our great Military. Remember the Caravans? Well, they didn’t get through and none are forming or on their way. Border is tight. Fake News silent!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1075732375169060869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He appeared to harden his demand for $5 billion in funding for the wall on the US-Mexico border, something he has fought for since he began campaigning for president in 2015.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Democrats, who know Steel Slats (Wall) are necessary for Border Security, are putting politics over Country. What they are just beginning to realize is that I will not sign any of their legislation, including infrastructure, unless it has perfect Border Security. U.S.A. WINS!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1075729672628068353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Republican leaders had planned to pass a temporary funding extension, known as a continuing resolution, until February 8, to allow time for debate about issues including border security.

But with ultra-conservative lawmakers and media personalities effectively demanding that the president stick to his campaign promise to fight for a border wall, Trump doubled down.

"I've made my position very clear. Any measure that funds the government has to include border security," he said at a White House event.

"Walls work, whether we like it or not," he added. "They work better than anything."

So far Democrats have refused to budge, saying they will not support a spending measure that funds Trump's wall.

"In terms of wall funding, that's a non-starter," said top House Democrat Nancy Pelosi. "I think they know that."

Fears of a shutdown - which could send thousands of federal employees home without pay just before Christmas - helped send US stocks tumbling, with the Dow closing down 2.0 per cent.

Trump had backed off his shutdown threat earlier this week, but it roared back to life as he accused Democrats of "putting politics over country" by not supporting a wall, which he insists will curb illegal immigration.

"What they are just beginning to realize," Trump tweeted about opposition Democrats, "is that I will not sign any of their legislation, including infrastructure, unless it has perfect Border Security."

Trump's move may have been influenced by members of the House Freedom caucus, some of whom have publicly called on the Republican president to stick to his guns on wall funding.

"Mr. President, we'll back you up," caucus chairman Mark Meadows said on the House floor late on Wednesday. "If you veto this bill, we'll be there."

Meadows, along with outgoing House Speaker Paul Ryan and other Republicans, met with Trump at the White House Thursday to discuss the path forward.

Ryan urged Congress to include border security measures in the funding bill but did not use the word "wall."

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders was more affirmative.

"We urgently need funding for border security and that includes a wall," she said.

Pelosi, Ryan's likely successor as speaker when Democrats reclaim the majority on January 3, meanwhile accused Republicans of having a "meltdown" over whether to pass the stopgap measure or force a shutdown.

And while House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy expressed optimism that "there's still time" for Congress to cobble together a fix before breaking for the holidays, any new bill would face huge hurdles in the Senate.

Advancing a measure in the 100-member upper chamber takes 60 votes. Republicans control 51, and getting nine Democrats to support $5 billion in wall funding is a virtual non-starter.

The news of Trump's rejection caught many lawmakers flat-footed.

"Are you ruining my life?" Republican Senator Susan Collins joked to The Hill when informed of Trump's decision, adding that she does not believe there are sufficient votes to pass a modified continuing resolution to get through Congress.

Democrats sounded flabbergasted that Republicans -- who currently control the White House, the House and the Senate -- might allow key funding to lapse.

"If the government shuts down, make no mistake -- this will be the Trump shutdown," congressman Dan Kildee said. "This is no way to run the corner grocery store, let alone the government of the United States."

The US government endured two brief shutdowns in early 2018. A far more crippling shutdown lasted for 16 days in 2013, when about 800,000 federal workers were furloughed amid a fight over funding Barack Obama's health care reforms.

US President Donald Trump stood firm on Thursday after refusing to sign a stopgap spending bill because it does not contain border wall funding, leaving lawmakers scrambling to avoid a government shutdown before Christmas.

US President Donald Trump stood firm on Thursday after refusing to sign a stopgap spending bill because it does not contain border wall funding, leaving lawmakers scrambling to avoid a government shutdown before Christmas. Trump's rejection of a measure that unanimously passed the Senate and was under consideration in the House plunged Washington into political chaos 36 hours before a midnight Friday deadline that sees funding expire for key agencies. With so much talk about the Wall, people are losing sight of the great job being done on our Southern Border by Border Patrol, ICE and our great Military. Remember the Caravans? Well, they didn’t get through and none are forming or on their way. Border is tight. Fake News silent! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2018 × He appeared to harden his demand for $5 billion in funding for the wall on the US-Mexico border, something he has fought for since he began campaigning for president in 2015. The Democrats, who know Steel Slats (Wall) are necessary for Border Security, are putting politics over Country. What they are just beginning to realize is that I will not sign any of their legislation, including infrastructure, unless it has perfect Border Security. U.S.A. WINS! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2018 × Republican leaders had planned to pass a temporary funding extension, known as a continuing resolution, until February 8, to allow time for debate about issues including border security. But with ultra-conservative lawmakers and media personalities effectively demanding that the president stick to his campaign promise to fight for a border wall, Trump doubled down. "I've made my position very clear. Any measure that funds the government has to include border security," he said at a White House event. "Walls work, whether we like it or not," he added. "They work better than anything." So far Democrats have refused to budge, saying they will not support a spending measure that funds Trump's wall. "In terms of wall funding, that's a non-starter," said top House Democrat Nancy Pelosi. "I think they know that." Fears of a shutdown - which could send thousands of federal employees home without pay just before Christmas - helped send US stocks tumbling, with the Dow closing down 2.0 per cent. Trump had backed off his shutdown threat earlier this week, but it roared back to life as he accused Democrats of "putting politics over country" by not supporting a wall, which he insists will curb illegal immigration. "What they are just beginning to realize," Trump tweeted about opposition Democrats, "is that I will not sign any of their legislation, including infrastructure, unless it has perfect Border Security." Trump's move may have been influenced by members of the House Freedom caucus, some of whom have publicly called on the Republican president to stick to his guns on wall funding. "Mr. President, we'll back you up," caucus chairman Mark Meadows said on the House floor late on Wednesday. "If you veto this bill, we'll be there." Meadows, along with outgoing House Speaker Paul Ryan and other Republicans, met with Trump at the White House Thursday to discuss the path forward. Ryan urged Congress to include border security measures in the funding bill but did not use the word "wall." White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders was more affirmative. "We urgently need funding for border security and that includes a wall," she said. Pelosi, Ryan's likely successor as speaker when Democrats reclaim the majority on January 3, meanwhile accused Republicans of having a "meltdown" over whether to pass the stopgap measure or force a shutdown. And while House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy expressed optimism that "there's still time" for Congress to cobble together a fix before breaking for the holidays, any new bill would face huge hurdles in the Senate. Advancing a measure in the 100-member upper chamber takes 60 votes. Republicans control 51, and getting nine Democrats to support $5 billion in wall funding is a virtual non-starter. The news of Trump's rejection caught many lawmakers flat-footed. "Are you ruining my life?" Republican Senator Susan Collins joked to The Hill when informed of Trump's decision, adding that she does not believe there are sufficient votes to pass a modified continuing resolution to get through Congress. Democrats sounded flabbergasted that Republicans -- who currently control the White House, the House and the Senate -- might allow key funding to lapse. "If the government shuts down, make no mistake -- this will be the Trump shutdown," congressman Dan Kildee said. "This is no way to run the corner grocery store, let alone the government of the United States." The US government endured two brief shutdowns in early 2018. A far more crippling shutdown lasted for 16 days in 2013, when about 800,000 federal workers were furloughed amid a fight over funding Barack Obama's health care reforms.

Trump refuses to sign US government shutdown legislation over Mexico wall funding

The US Senate today reached a rare bipartisan compromise to avert another crippling government shutdown by reaching a two-year budget deal to raise spending on military and domestic programmes by almost $ 300 billion.

The deal, agreed upon by both the Democratic and Republican leaders of the Senate, was immediately welcomed by the White House.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer announced the budget deal in the House of Representatives.

&quot;I am very pleased to announce that we have reached a two-year budget deal to lift the spending caps for defence and urgent domestic priorities far above current spending levels,&quot; Schumer said.

He added that there were still a few final details to work out but all the principles of the agreement were in place.

&quot;The budget deal does not have everything Democrats want, it does not have everything the Republicans want, but it has a great deal of what the American people want,&quot; Schumer said in his speech on the House Floor.

He said the budget deal was a &quot;genuine breakthrough&quot; after months of legislative logjams.

&quot;After months of fiscal brinkmanship, this budget deal is the first real sprout of bipartisanship. And it should break the long cycle of spending crises that have snarled this Congress and hampered our middle class,&quot; Schumer said.

The US government officially shutdown on January 20 for the first time in five years after the Senate rejected a short-term spending bill to keep the federal government running.

The shutdown gradually ended after Trump signed a bill to end the shutdown after striking a deal with Democrats to hold a debate on the future of over 700,000 young undocumented immigrants, including thousands of Indians.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said it was pleasing that Congress has been able to meet the Trump administration&#39;s defence spending requirement and come together on a two-year spending bill.

&quot;This bill achieves our top priority, a much-needed increase in funding for our national defence. This still also increases budget caps, ends the sequester, and provides certainty for the next two years,&quot; she told reporters.

Sanders said defence spending will match the request made by the Pentagon and will reflect what the President Donald Trump signed into law with the National Defence Authorisation Act.

&quot;The bottom line is that we can now have the strongest military we have ever had,&quot; she said.

&quot;Additionally, this bill increases the debt ceiling till March of 2019, which moves us away from crisis-to-crisis budgeting. It also ensures funding for our other critical priorities, including rebuilding America&#39;s crumbling infrastructure, tackling the opioids epidemic and taking care of our great veterans,&quot; Sanders said.

Making an appearance in the White House briefing room, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said he felt happy that Congress recognises the &quot;sobering effect&quot; of budgetary uncertainty on America&#39;s military and on the men and women who provide for the nation&#39;s defence.

House Speaker Paul Ryan said with this agreement they are breaking the logjam on a number of priorities for the American people.

However, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said she would oppose the deal unless Ryan agrees to a commitment to consider legislation to protect young undocumented immigrants.

The US Senate today reached a rare bipartisan compromise to avert another crippling government shutdown by reaching a two-year budget deal to raise spending on military and domestic programmes by almost $ 300 billion

The US Senate today reached a rare bipartisan compromise to avert another crippling government shutdown by reaching a two-year budget deal to raise spending on military and domestic programmes by almost $ 300 billion. The deal, agreed upon by both the Democratic and Republican leaders of the Senate, was immediately welcomed by the White House. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer announced the budget deal in the House of Representatives. "I am very pleased to announce that we have reached a two-year budget deal to lift the spending caps for defence and urgent domestic priorities far above current spending levels," Schumer said. He added that there were still a few final details to work out but all the principles of the agreement were in place. "The budget deal does not have everything Democrats want, it does not have everything the Republicans want, but it has a great deal of what the American people want," Schumer said in his speech on the House Floor. He said the budget deal was a "genuine breakthrough" after months of legislative logjams. "After months of fiscal brinkmanship, this budget deal is the first real sprout of bipartisanship. And it should break the long cycle of spending crises that have snarled this Congress and hampered our middle class," Schumer said. The US government officially shutdown on January 20 for the first time in five years after the Senate rejected a short-term spending bill to keep the federal government running. The shutdown gradually ended after Trump signed a bill to end the shutdown after striking a deal with Democrats to hold a debate on the future of over 700,000 young undocumented immigrants, including thousands of Indians. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said it was pleasing that Congress has been able to meet the Trump administration's defence spending requirement and come together on a two-year spending bill. "This bill achieves our top priority, a much-needed increase in funding for our national defence. This still also increases budget caps, ends the sequester, and provides certainty for the next two years," she told reporters. Sanders said defence spending will match the request made by the Pentagon and will reflect what the President Donald Trump signed into law with the National Defence Authorisation Act. "The bottom line is that we can now have the strongest military we have ever had," she said. "Additionally, this bill increases the debt ceiling till March of 2019, which moves us away from crisis-to-crisis budgeting. It also ensures funding for our other critical priorities, including rebuilding America's crumbling infrastructure, tackling the opioids epidemic and taking care of our great veterans," Sanders said. Making an appearance in the White House briefing room, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said he felt happy that Congress recognises the "sobering effect" of budgetary uncertainty on America's military and on the men and women who provide for the nation's defence. House Speaker Paul Ryan said with this agreement they are breaking the logjam on a number of priorities for the American people. However, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said she would oppose the deal unless Ryan agrees to a commitment to consider legislation to protect young undocumented immigrants.

US Senate reaches two-year budget deal to avert govt shutdown

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US Senate reaches two-year budget deal to avert govt shutdown