Trump urges GOP to deploy ‘nuclear option’ to end Democratic shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has urged Congressional Republicans to use the “nuclear option,” a move that would eliminate the Senate filibuster, to end the ongoing government shutdown. He made the comments during his recent meetings with world leaders on his Asia tour, addressing concerns about why Republicans have allowed the shutdown to continue. 

During the meetings, leaders reportedly asked Trump how Democrats managed to shut down the US government and why Republicans had not acted. The question prompted the president to reflect on the issue.

“The fact is, in flying back, I thought a great deal about that question, WHY?” Trump wrote on his Truth Social page on Thursday, October 30. He described the Democrats as “Crazed Lunatics that have lost all sense of WISDOM and REALITY” since losing power in Washington, DC.

Trump urges GOP to play ‘TRUMP CARD’ and end filibuster

Trump accused Democrats of attempting to take “trillions of dollars from our healthcare system and give it to others who are not deserving—people who have entered our country illegally, many from prisons and mental institutions.”

“That will hurt American citizens, and Republicans will not let it happen. It is now time for Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—get rid of the filibuster and get rid of it NOW!” he wrote.

Senate Republicans rule out nuclear option

So far, Senate Republicans have rejected using the nuclear option, which would remove the 60-vote threshold required to pass legislation without a filibuster. Traditionally, the filibuster was rarely invoked, but it has become increasingly common in recent decades. Without 60 votes to end debate, legislation cannot advance. 

Trump warns Democrats would act if filibuster ends

Critics argue that ending the filibuster could backfire, benefiting Democrats when they return to power. Trump, however, noted that Democrats previously pushed to eliminate it.

“Just a short while ago, the Democrats, while in power, fought for three years to do this but were unable to pull it off,” Trump wrote. He praised Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson for their work.

“Well now WE are in power and if we did what we should be doing, it would IMMEDIATELY end this ridiculous country-destroying shutdown,” he added.

“If Democrats return to power, which would be made easier if Republicans do not use the great strength and policies available by ending the filibuster, they will act on day one, whether or not we do it,” Trump concluded.