President Donald Trump said he would “totally be willing” to shut down the government if Congress does not send him a bill approving $5 billion for his proposed wall on the U.S. southern border.
His comments came during a Tuesday interview with Politico.
"I don't do anything ... just for political gain," Trump said. "But I will tell you, politically speaking, that issue is a total winner. People look at the border, they look at the rush to the police, they look at the rock throwers and really hurting three people, three very brave border patrol folks -- I think that it's a tremendous issue, but much more importantly, is really needed. So we have to have border security."
And he added: “I am firm” on insisting that $5 billion be provided for the wall.
Democratic lawmakers have said they would approve $1.6 billion for the barrier.
Politico noted his insistence on money for the wall suggests a real risk of a partial government shutdown. The website noted Congress must approve seven appropriations bills by next Friday or risk interruptions at some federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security.
Top House Republicans met with Trump at the White House on Tuesday and discussed government funding, according to CNN.
"The president has been very clear that he needs $5 billion to properly secure the border," Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., said. "We need to be there for him and make sure this gets signed."
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.