Trump attributes the slowdown in US economic growth to what he calls a 'Democrat Shutdown'
WASHINGTON, DC: Trump issued a stark warning on Friday, February 20, accusing congressional Democrats of instigating a “mini” government shutdown that he claims jeopardizes the nation’s economic momentum. In a series of social media posts, Trump argued that previous funding lapses associated with the opposition had reduced US economic growth by at least two percentage points in Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
His comments came as the Bureau of Economic Analysis released its advance estimate for fourth-quarter GDP growth. This report, which was initially scheduled for release in late January, was delayed due to a six-week shutdown that took place from October to November 2025. Trump emphasized that the current partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reminiscent of earlier funding disputes.
Shutdown stalls vital security agencies
The limited shutdown started on February 14 after Congress was unable to pass a targeted funding measure for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Although about 90% of the department's nearly 272,000 employees are classified as essential and are continuing their work, agencies such as the TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard are operating without current funding.
Essential personnel are currently working without immediate pay, with compensation anticipated once a funding agreement is established. Trump claimed that Democrats are using federal workers as leverage in this dispute. Additionally, some local officials have reported that disruptions in federal partnerships are hindering infrastructure coordination and emergency response training programs.
Trump renews attacks on 'Worst' Powell
The President reiterated his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, nicknaming him “‘Too Late’ Powell.” Trump has consistently called on the Fed to lower interest rates, arguing that higher borrowing costs are resulting in “hundreds of billions of dollars” in additional annual expenses.
He stated that revenue generated from tariffs should help support lower interest rates. Powell, whose term ends in May, has maintained the Fed’s independence from political influence.
GOP maintains enforcement agency funding
Despite the partial government shutdown, enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are still operational. Republicans have previously secured additional funding for these agencies, which has limited the immediate effects of the funding lapse on their operations.
The current dispute revolves around Democratic demands for new restrictions on federal agents, following a high-profile use-of-force incident in Minneapolis. Trump has rejected these proposals, emphasizing his stance that law enforcement agencies must remain fully funded. Negotiations on Capitol Hill are ongoing as the funding standoff continues.
