The White House criticized Republicans, including President-elect Donald Trump and Vice-President-elect JD Vance, for potentially causing a government shutdown by linking the debt limit to government funding. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the importance of a bipartisan agreement and warned against the negative impact on hardworking Americans and national stability.
Jean-Pierre highlighted the repercussions of a government shutdown, stating that it would harm communities recovering from disasters, farmers, ranchers, and community health centers. She stressed the essential services at risk, such as support for veterans and Social Security recipients, urging Republicans to honor the agreement without further political maneuvering.
Trump and Vance issued a joint statement calling for a streamlined spending bill that does not fully align with Democratic demands. Trump went further to threaten primary challenges against any Republican supporting the proposal, emphasizing the need for party unity.
President Biden, currently in Wilmington, Delaware, has not publicly commented on the issue as he commemorates a personal anniversary. The situation remains tense as the debate over government funding and the debt limit continues among political leaders.
