Democrats divided on government shutdown's political impact

Democrats are divided over whether to support a spending extension to prevent a government shutdown. Senator Chuck Schumer believes a shutdown would give President Trump more power to cut government programs, while others argue the extension would allow Trump to issue more executive orders. In a shutdown, essential government work continues, but many federal employees are furloughed and unpaid. Decisions on what is considered essential are made by the White House Office of Management and Budget. The debate centers on whether a shutdown strengthens or weakens presidential authority. This division reflects broader concerns about the impact of government funding decisions on federal agencies and programs.