Trump says several Democrats backed federal programs ‘won’t return’ after shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said that the ongoing shutdown will permanently end multiple Democrat-sponsored federal programs. He called their introduction a “big mistake” and unwanted. Trump blamed Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for the crisis, claiming Schumer was trying to regain relevance. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One.

Donald Trump calls shutdown 'customary'

When asked, "What's harder, peace in the Middle East or ending a government shutdown?” Trump replied, “Well, I think the hardest is this. This has been going on for 3,000 years. The shutdown has only been for 10 days. So I think the shutdown has gotten to be almost customary, but we're taking care of it.”

Focusing on the shutdown, Trump said the military had been fully funded and confirmed ending programs he described as unnecessary. “They happen to be Democrat-sponsored programs, but we're ending some programs that we never want. And we're probably not going to allow them to come back.”

Donald Trump calls it 'Schumer shutdown'

Trump also blamed Chuck Schumer for the impasse, calling it a “Schumer shutdown” and accusing him of trying to regain political relevance. “I think they made a mistake. I think they made a big mistake,” Trump said.

The remarks come amid the partial government shutdown, ongoing since October 1, affecting federal agencies and services, while negotiations between the White House and congressional Democrats continue.

Departure to Middle East

Trump departed for a visit to Israel and Egypt on Sunday. He called the trip a very special moment, hailing the ceasefire and hostage release deal he mediated, which led to the end of the conflict in Gaza.

“This is going to be a very special time. Everybody’s very excited about this moment,” Trump said. Asked if the conflict between Israel and Hamas was over, he replied, “The war is over. Okay? You understand that?”

Trump is set to attend a joint ceremony in Israel and Egypt marking the ceasefire and hostage release agreement, calling it a “historic” moment for Middle East peace efforts.