A U. S. senator spoke to Breitbart News regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s request to increase the debt ceiling as part of a government funding deal. The senator, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that while Trump’s request makes sense from his viewpoint, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is unlikely to agree. Schumer’s leverage is primarily the debt ceiling deadline, which he is not keen to relinquish.
The senator observed that other Democratic senators appear to be confused and anxious about the situation. They are not as strategic as Schumer, who likely hopes to utilize the debt ceiling as a bargaining chip against Trump in the future. The senator expressed concern about using the debt ceiling for political leverage, emphasizing that it can be harmful for the country. He stated that going over the debt limit would be more damaging than a government shutdown, as it could lead to serious consequences.
The discussion took place after House Republicans scrapped their plans for voting on a government funding package negotiated by House Speaker Mike Johnson. This plan collapsed due to conservative backlash, significantly influenced by figures like Elon Musk. Trump further asserted his position, insisting on a straightforward continuing resolution without additional spending and a long-term debt ceiling extension.
When asked if such a proposal could pass, the senator was doubtful, indicating that it didn’t align with Schumer’s strategy. He suggested that Schumer is unlikely to make concessions at the last moment and believes that the deal previously made is the Republicans' responsibility to fulfill.
The senator indicated that Trump's current approach might be strategic for the upcoming GOP Senate majority, making them address the debt ceiling earlier rather than waiting until the deadline. He also mentioned that both parties are concerned about disaster aid, but no clear path forward has been identified.
As of now, the situation regarding government funding and the debt ceiling remains unclear, with only two days left until the deadline. The senator stated that things may become clearer soon but acknowledged the current murkiness of the situation, expressing uncertainty about the outcome.
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