In brief
As the federal government remains shut down, President Trump maintains a busy schedule, contrasting with previous shutdown responses from past administrations. While furloughs affect around 750,000 federal employees, Trump’s team continues to engage in public events and international trips, raising questions about the political strategies amid government turmoil.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump isn’t curtailing travel. He’s not avoiding golf or making do with a skeleton staff in the West Wing. Even hamburgers served at the White House aren’t from McDonalds this time.
In shutdowns past, including during Trump’s first term, presidents typically scaled back their schedules. With staffers deemed “non-essential” sent home, the White House often tried to present empathy toward those affected by disruptions to key services. However, the current shutdown has left approximately 750,000 federal employees furloughed, others working without pay, and those relying on programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, facing looming funding issues.
Regardless, Trump continues to conduct business as usual amidst the shutdown. Political Strategist Paul Begala noted, “They seem to be like, ‘So far, so good, man.’”
Ongoing Activities During Shutdown
Trump is currently on a six-day trip through Asia, following a recent Middle East visit aimed at celebrating a ceasefire deal in the Israel-Hamas conflict. He continues with fundraisers at both the White House and his Mar-a-Lago estate, hosting events designed to reconnect with major donors.
Members of the Cabinet have also been active, with Vice President JD Vance traveling internationally and other cabinet members engaging in various public events.
In stark contrast to previous shutdowns, where over half of White House staff were furloughed, only 32% of the Executive Office of the President are affected this time. This situation has made it difficult to gauge the gravity of the shutdown.
Trump has remarked, “I don’t even know if they’re supposed to be working, but they wouldn’t miss a day.” Previously, during his first term, he curtailed travel and participation in events due to a sense of obligation to address the shutdown.
A Shift in Strategy
This approach offers Trump certain political benefits as it portrays a sense of normalcy. Allies suggest it’s a “smarter approach,” distancing the administration from ownership of the shutdown and allowing for what they describe as a more presidential presence.
During the 2018 shutdown, Trump openly took credit for the impasse, whereas currently, the administration has been keen to deflect blame onto Congressional Democrats. Former White House officials have stressed that this adaptation demonstrates political acumen compared to responses from past administrations.
With Americans showing a divided perception of responsibility for the shutdown, both sides are scrambling for favorable public narrative while the effects on everyday federal workers become increasingly pronounced.
Overall, the current dynamics of the shutdown are showcasing a unique interaction between presidential power, public perception, and political strategy in the face of governmental crises.
