President Donald Trump forcefully dismissed CBS News reporter Norah O’Donnell’s inquiry into the government shutdown, asserting it was solely the result of Democratic actions. When O’Donnell referenced the “longest government shutdown” in history, Trump interrupted, declaring, “Democrat’s fault!”
Pressed on resolving the standoff, Trump argued that Republicans had consistently supported reopening the government, while Democrats repeatedly opposed ending the shutdown. “All they have to do is say ‘let’s vote,’” he stated.
In a separate exchange, Trump rejected efforts to end the shutdown through what he called “extortion,” accusing Democrats of abandoning their principles. “I’m not going to be extorted by the Democrats who have lost their way!” he said. He also criticized Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, labeling him a “basketcase.”
Trump reiterated his call for Republicans to eliminate the filibuster, advocating for the “nuclear option” to expedite legislative action. He urged party members to adopt an aggressive stance, claiming Democrats would act immediately if given the chance. “The Dems are crazed lunatics,” he asserted.
