Trump Wants A Government Shutdown?
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) recently made a bold suggestion, advising President-elect Trump to consider allowing the government to shut down rather than compromising with Democrats. In an appearance on Fox News, Gingrich argued that Trump would be better positioned politically by standing firm and letting President Biden manage the chaos of a government shutdown. “I think President Trump would be much better off letting the government close, watching Biden preside over the mess, and then going to the American people to say, ‘I am not going to sell you out,’” Gingrich explained. “He should tell the country, ‘I need your help to push Congress to pass a good bill.’”
Gingrich’s comments come at a critical moment as Republicans in the House scramble to avoid a shutdown, with a looming deadline set for Friday night. Earlier this week, a 1,500-page bipartisan continuing resolution aimed at funding the government into the new year was swiftly rejected. Trump allies, including tech mogul Elon Musk, voiced strong opposition to the bill, prompting Trump himself to weigh in. He criticized the proposal for being too favorable to Democrats and called for a more conservative approach that included an increase in the debt ceiling alongside disaster aid and support for farmers.
In response to growing opposition to the plan, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) proposed a revised “Plan B” deal, but this too failed in the House, further raising the possibility of a shutdown. Trump’s insistence on a debt ceiling increase alongside spending cuts caused further tension within Republican ranks, and 38 Republicans joined Democrats in voting against the revised deal.
Gingrich, however, remains resolute, advising Trump and GOP leaders to stand firm. “Republicans should not fear a shutdown,” he posted on social media. “The next election is two years away.” His call for boldness reflects a growing sentiment among conservatives that compromising on key issues could be more damaging in the long run than holding firm, even at the risk of a government closure. For Republicans, the next few days will be a defining moment in their strategy heading into the 2024 elections.
