Trump Ramps Up Shutdown Odds by Reiterating Demands for Wall Funding

Government Executive: President Trump this week has doubled down on his demand that Congress provide initial funding for his administration to begin construction on a wall across the U.S.-Mexico border, reestablishing the battle lines upon which the upcoming government shutdown fight will be waged.

Trump sent a letter to congressional leaders on Monday requesting a budget amendment for an additional $5.9 billion for the Defense Department in fiscal 2018. The letter also reiterated the president’s call for $1.6 billion for the border wall, something Democrats have repeatedly called a non-starter. Federal agencies are currently operating under a continuing resolution that did not include any spending for wall construction. The stopgap measure is set to expire Dec. 8.

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