Who's Really in Charge? Congress vs. Trump During the Shutdown

USA, WashingtonSun Oct 26 2025
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The U. S. government shutdown has sparked a heated debate about who holds the real power in Washington. While Congress is supposed to control federal spending, President Trump has been making bold moves that some say are pushing the boundaries of his authority. Congress is divided, with Democrats and Republicans pointing fingers at each other. Democrats want assurances that Trump will not ignore their decisions on spending. They are worried that if they agree to a deal, Trump might just do what he wants anyway. Republicans, on the other hand, are focused on reopening the government quickly, even if it means giving Trump more control over spending. The shutdown began because Congress couldn't agree on funding for the new fiscal year. Democrats want to address healthcare subsidies that are set to expire soon, while Republicans want a temporary spending bill to get the government running again. A recent poll shows that more Americans blame Republicans for the shutdown, but the gap is not huge.
Trump has been using the shutdown to his advantage. He has frozen funds for Democratic-led areas, laid off federal workers, and moved money around to ensure that military and law enforcement personnel get paid. This has raised concerns among some Republicans, who are starting to question whether Trump is overstepping his authority. The situation has also highlighted the growing tension between Congress and the White House. Some Republicans are starting to speak out, saying that Trump's actions are unconstitutional. Others, however, are willing to give Trump more control over spending, trusting him to make the right decisions. The shutdown is not just about politics; it's about the balance of power in the U. S. government. If Congress can't assert its authority over spending, it could set a dangerous precedent for future presidents. The question is, will Congress step up and take control, or will it continue to let Trump call the shots?
https://localnews.ai/article/whos-really-in-charge-congress-vs-trump-during-the-shutdown-9b639098

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