Senator Schumer’s decision to vote with Republicans on a spending bill in order to avoid a government shutdown has sparked controversy among Democrats. Many Democrats, including Senator Patty Murray, are concerned that the spending extension will give President Trump and Elon Musk more power to defund government programs and agencies, bypassing Congress. The debate over how best to push back against Mr. Trump highlights the question of whether the White House gains more power or less during a government shutdown.
During a government shutdown, federal agencies continue essential work, but employees and contractors are not paid. The White House Office of Management and Budget plays a key role in determining which employees should continue working and which programs need to operate. Given the Trump administration’s efforts to shrink the federal government and reduce its workforce, the potential outcomes of a shutdown remain uncertain.
Shutdowns give the president broad authority to determine which spending is essential and which can be cut. President Trump and Elon Musk have already taken steps to shut down programs and agencies they oppose, such as the U.S. Agency for International Development. In a shutdown scenario, the president could have more leeway to prioritize certain programs and departments based on their agenda, potentially leaving federal employees in agencies they disagree with furloughed indefinitely.
Temporary funding extensions, like the one proposed by Republicans, may give the Trump administration more discretion over federal funds. While regular spending bills outline specific allocations for federal spending, temporary extensions simply continue current funding levels without any modifications. While presidents are generally expected to adhere to Congress’s funding directives, the Trump administration has shown a willingness to disregard spending dictates in the past.
Many Democrats are concerned that extending funding without restrictions could embolden Trump and Musk to act unilaterally and bypass congressional oversight. Senator Christopher Murphy warned that the administration may continue to act illegally regardless of the terms of the funding bill. By supporting the temporary extension, Democrats risk lending legitimacy to the administration’s efforts to reshape the government and undermine the rule of law. The debate over funding extensions, government shutdowns, and executive powers underscores the ongoing power struggle between the executive and legislative branches.
