Trump Warns of Possible Government Shutdown Lasting 'Months or Even Years'

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, reiterated his demands for building a border wall in the southern part of the country on Friday, January 4, warning Democrats that a partial government shutdown could last 'years.' He also stated that if necessary, he could bypass Congress by declaring a 'national emergency.' In a press conference held at the White House, he said, 'We can declare a national emergency for the safety of our country... I might do this.' On Friday, Trump met with congressional leaders for the second time in a week, but so far, there are no signs of reaching an agreement with Democrats to secure funding for the border wall with Mexico. Nancy Pelosi, the new Speaker of the House of Representatives, has indicated that she is working on a plan to fund government agencies that have been shut down due to the political deadlock in Washington. However, this plan does not include funding for the border wall, which has led to Trump's dissatisfaction. Trump further warned that America's borders are 'at risk' and face a 'heavy catastrophe.' He stated, 'We are talking about national security. We are not talking about a game. We are not playing games.' Trump's plan for building the border wall with Mexico requires over five billion dollars in funding, but Democrats emphasize strengthening surveillance equipment at the border and reject the idea of building a wall, which was a campaign promise of Trump. Although Trump described his meetings with congressional leaders as 'constructive,' Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, stated that he told them he would shut down the government for an extended period, months or even years, if necessary. Trump confirmed this quote to reporters but expressed hope that the government shutdown would not last more than a few more days.