Donald Trump’s chilling leaked photo after ‘strangest thing ever’ in Oval Office
Donald Trump met with Democratic leaders in the Oval Office to try and prevent a government shutdown, but the talks failed. This means the government is heading toward a closure, and hundreds of thousands of federal workers could be forced to take unpaid leave, with some possibly losing their jobs.
Essential services like education and environmental programs are expected to slow down or stop, while Trump has promised harsher measures as punishment for the shutdown.
At the same time, Trump has fueled fresh concern by hinting he may try to run for a third term, something that would go against the U.S. Constitution. During the shutdown talks, he placed “Trump 2028” hats on his desk, which caught the attention of lawmakers.
Democrats who attended the meeting said it was bizarre, with House leader Hakeem Jeffries describing it as “the strangest thing ever.” Trump has previously said “there are methods” to make a third run possible, and his supporters have already been offered 2028 campaign merchandise.
This is the third time Trump has overseen a government funding lapse, but the first since his return to the White House. The shutdown highlights the deep political divide between Republicans and Democrats.
Democrats are pushing for funding to extend health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which millions of Americans rely on to keep their insurance affordable. Republicans, however, have refused to negotiate and encouraged Trump not to compromise.
The standoff has no clear solution for now, and the impact could be felt nationwide. Government workers may miss paychecks, businesses that rely on federal contracts could face uncertainty, and people depending on government services may see disruptions.
Experts warn that shutdowns hurt the economy, shake public trust, and create unnecessary fear. A former White House budget official said that how the government spends money shows what the country values most, and a shutdown only brings damage and confusion for ordinary Americans.
