Political Battle in Washington: Who Will Prevail?

The U.S. Congress is on the verge of a shutdown: federal government funding may halt within days if lawmakers fail to reach an agreement. The risk is especially high as Republicans and Democrats remain deeply divided over spending priorities and political concessions.

Source The New York Times

Leaders from both parties are trying to use the crisis for their own political advantage. For Senator John Thune, it is his first major test as majority leader, while House Speaker Mike Johnson faces the challenge of protecting his fragile majority. Democrats Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries see the standoff as an opportunity to energize their base ahead of upcoming elections.

On Monday, the four top leaders will meet with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. Unless a compromise is reached within hours, federal funding will expire after midnight on Tuesday, potentially paralyzing government operations and delivering a major blow to the economy.