White House Finds Alternative Funding to Pay Soldiers
President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that his administration will ensure U.S. troops receive their pay despite the ongoing government shutdown. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that he had authorized Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to use available funds originally allocated for research and development (R&D) to cover military salaries.
“I am using my authority as Commander in Chief to direct our Secretary of War to use all available funds to get our troops paid on October 15th,” Trump wrote.
Pentagon Confirms $8 Billion Will Be Reallocated
While Trump did not specify the exact funding sources or total amount, a Pentagon official later confirmed that approximately $8 billion initially intended for R&D, testing, and evaluation will be redirected to ensure troops receive their pay if the shutdown continues beyond October 15.
11 Days and Counting: The Shutdown Standoff
The shutdown — now in its 11th day — began after failed negotiations between the Republican-controlled Congress and Democratic lawmakers. Although Republicans hold majorities in both the House and Senate, they still require at least seven Democratic votes to pass a spending bill in the Senate.
Democrats have insisted that any deal must include continued and expanded healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, refusing to support any spending plan that leaves this issue unaddressed.
Political Tension and Blame Game Intensify
Trump accused Democrats of holding the nation’s security “hostage” through their refusal to pass the funding bill.
“I will not allow Democrats to hold our military and national security hostage with their dangerous shutdown,” Trump declared, promising to negotiate healthcare reforms once the government reopens.
As the standoff drags on, thousands of federal workers have already been furloughed, and political leaders are scrambling for solutions.
Democrats Call Emergency Meeting
In response, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has summoned minority Democrats for an urgent meeting on Tuesday evening to discuss potential paths forward. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated that no new legislative sessions will be scheduled until the shutdown is resolved.