According to the Washington Post, the White House and federal authorities prepare for the possible government shutdown amid disagreements over the US border security.
The majority of government offices may be closed on Saturday, December 22, unless the Republicans led by Donald Trump come to agreement with the Democrats on the funding of the wall on the US-Mexican border.
Currently, the Democratic party is against the 5 billion-dollar project proposed by the Republicans. They intend to spend much smaller amount for the wall construction – $1.3 billion.
Experts believe, the government can be closed only partially this weekend. The shutdown will concern law enforcement agencies and departments related to national security. The state offices may stay closed for several days or even weeks, analysts say.
Earlier, the US President threatened the Democratic leaders with the suspension of government services during a meeting regarding the construction of the wall on the border with Mexico.
Notably, government funding of many US state departments ends on December 21. The US government shutdown is possible in case Congress does not approve or the President does not sign an omnibus spending bill.
