Democrats are taunting President Donald Trump and Republicans over what they're calling a looming "Republican shutdown" and blaming GOP lawmakers for "choosing chaos."
Several Democrats raised concerns after Trump "chickened out" and abruptly cancelled a meeting with the party's leaders, instead writing a furious note to "Minority Radical Left Democrats" as lawmakers work to avoid a government shutdown.
Congress must approve a government spending bill by next Tuesday to avoid a shutdown. Yet, Trump continues to ice out Democrats with finger-pointing and cannot fully rely on only Republicans to get a major tax cut approved, among other legislative actions, according to reports.
Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), who Trump has decried among his "political enemies," accused Republicans of worrying about loyalty to Trump over their country.
"Donald Trump wants a shutdown. Senate Republicans are following his orders. Democrats want a bipartisan deal to protect families from higher health care costs. The choice is clear: Serve Trump... or serve the American people," Schiff wrote on X.
Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) said that the clock is ticking and called out Republicans for inaction.
"In SIX DAYS, the government shuts down, and Republicans are nowhere to be seen. President Trump chickened out and cancelled a meeting with Democrat leaders. Affordable healthcare, food assistance, and vital services are on the line. I am joining @HouseDemocrats to protect everyday Americans," Kelly wrote on X.
Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA) pointed to working families and what they need as a top priority.
"We’re just days away from a Republican shutdown. Even with full control of Congress and the White House, they’re choosing chaos that working families can’t afford. I’ll always fight to protect your health care, lower costs, and keep our government working for you. And I’ll keep you updated every step of the way," Ruiz wrote on X.
Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) called for action from Republicans.
"Republicans are pushing a partisan spending bill that fails families, raises health insurance costs, and pushes us toward a shutdown. @HouseDemocrats support a bipartisan budget that lowers health costs and rejects new tax breaks for the wealthy elite. See the difference?" Garamendi wrote via X.