Trump would ‘absolutely consider’ delay on government shutdown

WASHINGTON (UPI) — The White House and congressional negotiators are considering a bill that would delay a government shutdown after the death of former President George H.W. Bush.

President Donald Trump said Saturday that if approached by members of Congress he would likely grant a request to push the deadline back, while funeral plans for Bush, whose body is set to lie in state at the Capitol, are being completed.

“If they come — which they have — to talk about an extension because of President Bush’s passing, I would absolutely consider it and probably give it,” Trump said.

Funding for parts of the federal government, including Homeland Security, is set to expire at midnight Friday and Congress as been divided over Trump’s request for at least $5 billion in border security to help fund a border wall.

Trump declared Wednesday a national day of mourning for Bush’s death, providing lawmakers less time to negotiate a budget deal.

If a bill isn’t passed by Friday, the affected agencies would shut down, possibly sending thousands of federal workers home without pay.

Congress and the White House could reach a final decision on whether to extend the budget deadline as soon as Sunday, as they continue to discuss details.

Reporting by Daniel Uria

United Press International

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