WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday a federal government shutdown is now “likely,” with Congress still deadlocked ahead of a midnight deadline to approve a funding bill. “Nothing is inevitable, but I would say it’s probably likely,” Trump told reporters, as both Republicans and Democrats continued to blame each other for the looming crisis.
Without an agreement, hundreds of thousands of public servants will be furloughed and many government agencies will grind to a halt. Republicans argue that their bill to extend federal funds for seven weeks is straightforward and non-controversial, while Democrats say they will not support it unless it includes an extension of expiring health care benefits. Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer noted that Republicans had ample time to negotiate, but refused to compromise.
Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Trump, have repeated claims that Democrats are attempting to provide health care benefits to “illegal aliens,” even though unauthorized immigrants are not legally eligible for such programs.
The potential shutdown raises questions about impacts beyond U.S. borders, including for Canadian travellers. Matthew Lebo, a political-science professor at Western University, said longer lines at airports and possible staffing reductions at border crossings could affect travel. The American Immigration Lawyers Association added that while Customs and Border Protection is considered essential and will continue operations, processing of applications at border points and consular services may be disrupted.
The shutdown is not expected to halt Trump’s tariff agenda. The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that tariffs, including those currently imposed on Canadian steel, aluminum, automobiles, copper, and non-CUSMA-compliant goods, will continue to be collected.
Government shutdowns have occurred several times in recent history, including two during Trump’s first term. The longest lasted 35 days between late 2018 and early 2019, when disputes over funding for a U.S.–Mexico border wall left many federal employees working without pay and caused significant airport delays.
Analysts say the current situation is different. Reports suggest the White House has instructed federal agencies to prepare plans for permanent staff reductions during a shutdown. Trump acknowledged the possibility, while blaming Democrats for the impasse.
Shutdowns are historically unpopular with the American public, and political experts note the burden of blame tends to fall on the party that controls the levers of power. With Republicans currently holding the House, Senate, and presidency, pressure is mounting as the clock runs down.