Senator Kim Questions GOP Funding Amid Trump-Era Restructuring Worries

Democrats threaten government shutdown to counter Trump’s agency dismantling plans.

Quick Takes

Senator Andy Kim open to shutting down government if Trump continues dismantling federal agencies
Democrats may withhold votes for federal funding to oppose Trump’s budget cuts
Government funding deadline of March 14 looms as potential leverage point
Concerns raised over Trump’s attempts to close USAID, halt CFPB activities, and pause federal loans
Democrats emphasize Republican responsibility if shutdown occurs

Democrats Consider Drastic Measures as Funding Deadline Approaches

As the March 14 government funding deadline approaches, Democratic senators are contemplating extreme measures to counter President Trump’s efforts to restructure federal agencies. Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey has emerged as a key figure in this developing political standoff, expressing willingness to support a government shutdown if the Trump administration persists in its plans to dismantle crucial government entities.

The potential shutdown threat comes in response to a series of actions by the Trump administration, including attempts to close the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), halt activities of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), pause federal loans and grants, and suggest shutting down the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These moves have alarmed Democrats, who view them as an overreach of executive power and a threat to vital government functions.

The odds of a government shutdown have doubled over the past week, now up to 63% pic.twitter.com/LNJr14OwnU

— Kalshi (@Kalshi) February 10, 2025

Democratic Strategy and Republican Response

Senator Kim, along with other prominent Democrats like Senator Patty Murray of Washington, has voiced strong opposition to the administration’s plans. They argue that passing a federal funding bill while allowing the dismantling of government agencies would be unacceptable. This stance marks a significant shift for centrist Democrats, who typically oppose using government shutdowns as political leverage. “We are in a crisis right now, and Democrats will use every tool possible to protect Americans” stated Senator Cory Booker .

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries plans to use the funding deadline as leverage to prevent Trump from diverting congressionally appropriated funds. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson has accused Jeffries of attempting to “set up some sort of a government shutdown,” a claim Jeffries denies. This exchange highlights the growing tension between the two parties as the deadline approaches.

Potential Consequences and Democratic Justification

Democrats argue that their stance is necessary to maintain the integrity of government operations and to hold the administration accountable. Senator Kim emphasized that if a shutdown occurs, it would be the responsibility of the majority party. He expressed concern about a potential constitutional crisis and the need to use all available leverage to prevent what Democrats view as lawless actions by the administration.

The Democrats’ willingness to consider a government shutdown underscores the limited options they face in opposing Republican control. It also highlights the growing pressure from rank-and-file Democrats for party leaders to push back against the Trump administration’s actions. As the March 14 deadline nears, all eyes will be on Congress to see if a compromise can be reached or if the government will face another shutdown.