As the deadline for a potential government shutdown looms on October 1, 2025, discussions in Washington are intensifying. In an interview on “Face the Nation,” political correspondent Robert Costa revealed that President Donald Trump believes a shutdown is increasingly likely due to a deadlock between the two major parties.
During the interview, Costa highlighted that Democrats are advocating for the extension of health care subsidies linked to the Affordable Care Act. In contrast, President Trump maintains that his focus is on restricting health care access for undocumented migrants. He stated, “We’re not going to allow it,” emphasizing that discussions cannot progress unless Democrats align with his priorities on health care.
Trump’s comments suggest a fundamental divide between the parties, with top Democrats indicating they will not compromise on health care subsidies. Costa noted that Trump expressed uncertainty about how to resolve the situation, stating, “I just don’t know how we are going to solve this issue.”
Inside the White House, anonymous sources have indicated that Trump might welcome a shutdown, seeing it as an opportunity to utilize executive power to eliminate what he terms “waste, fraud, and abuse.” This includes a controversial memo indicating the government is prepared for mass layoffs if an agreement is not reached.
Trump’s Legal Statements Raise Concerns
In addition to the looming shutdown, President Trump has made headlines with his calls for legal action against political opponents. Costa reported that Trump has publicly pushed for the prosecution of individuals such as Adam Schiff, now a senator, and Letitia James, the New York Attorney General. Schiff has been critical of Trump, while James has previously sued him over allegations regarding the valuation of his real estate holdings.
While Costa did not confirm direct conversations with Trump regarding specific prosecutions, he noted that discussions within Trump’s inner circle suggest this is just the beginning. The list of potential targets includes individuals who have scrutinized or criticized Trump over the years, such as former FBI Director James Comey and retired Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley.
This situation has created a significant rift in Washington, with Republicans framing Trump’s actions as necessary accountability while Democrats view them as authoritarian. The tension between the two parties is palpable, contributing to a broader crisis that shows no signs of resolution.
As the political climate grows increasingly fraught, the implications for governance and legal accountability remain uncertain. The coming days will be crucial as both parties navigate this complex landscape, striving to avoid a government shutdown while addressing the contentious issues at hand.