The federal government shut down this week for the first time in seven years. That much you already knew.
But how will it end?
All indications so far tell us this shutdown could be far different from past iterations, simply because President Donald Trump is operating as though no one will stop him. And he might be right.
The executive branch, not Congress, has broad latitude to determine how to manage federal agencies in a shutdown, and Trump has directed his cabinet and agency directors to consider permanent layoffs rather than furloughs. Like so many other actions Trump has taken, that might end up in court.
The administration already has shrunk the size of government over the last several months (military excluded) and House and Senate Republicans have been OK with it. Susan Collins has picked her spots to challenge Trump, so we'll see if she speaks out about mass layoffs should they happen.
Many, including Maine's other senator, Angus King, believe Democrats have overplayed their hand in refusing to vote for a temporary budget bill. Shutting down the government, King said this week, may give Trump more power. Others think Democrats haven't fought Trump hard enough and this is the best chance to make a stand.
All this to say, this shutdown could last a while, and have long-lasting consequences. What do you think? Drop me a line at: erussell@pressherald.com
- Eric Russell
|
