Trump Uses Shutdown to Punish Democrats and Escalate Crisis

The White House under Donald Trump has taken unprecedented steps, using the shutdown as a tool to pressure opponents. The administration froze billions in funding and is preparing mass layoffs of thousands of federal workers, threatening to paralyze key government services and strike a blow to the U.S. economy.

According to The New York Times

Democratic-led states were directly targeted. Major infrastructure projects and aid programs were halted, with officials openly declaring the crisis a “chance” to slash agencies and punish political enemies.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of federal employees have been left without pay, including military personnel and airport staff. In Washington, concern is growing: the longer the shutdown lasts, the greater its impact on families, businesses, and the economy. Despite the chaos, Trump’s allies view the crisis as an opportunity to strengthen their position.