The US government risks running out of funds before Christmas due to Republicans in Congress rejecting a bipartisan budget compromise, influenced by President-elect Trump and Elon Musk. This deadlock could lead to thousands of federal employees going unpaid and museums and national parks closing during the holiday period.
Essential services such as defense and police will continue to operate, and welfare payments are assured. The political crisis highlights divisions in Washington even before Trump’s inauguration.
Trump and Musk opposed the initial budget compromise, leading to its rejection. Musk criticized the bill for containing unnecessary items, and he spread misinformation about funding allocations.
Despite attempts to pass an alternative plan, disagreements from both parties persist. Conservatives within the Republican party also opposed the unlimited borrowing proposal.
As the situation remains unresolved, Speaker Johnson expressed hope for a new solution. Democrats criticize Musk’s influence, dubbing Trump a puppet of Musk and jokingly referring to Musk as the de facto president.
Source: NOS