Story perspectives

Trump Warns of Kamikaze Attack Amid Shutdown Crisis

10/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

President Donald J. Trump calls Democrats' tactics during government shutdown a kamikaze attack and warns of losses.
He faced questions about a memo suggesting federal employees could miss back pay, asserting he follows the law today.
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer urged Trump to intervene; House Speaker Mike Johnson said military pay would be protected, with government reopening.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days from October 1 to 17, stemmed from a standoff between President Barack Obama and Congressional Republicans over the Affordable Care Act. Approximately 800,000 federal employees were furloughed, disrupting essential services and costing the economy an estimated $24 billion. This event highlighted ongoing partisan tensions and the challenges of U.S. governance, echoing similar conflicts in subsequent administrations.

1 of 2

Story summary

President Donald J. Trump calls Democrats' tactics during government shutdown a kamikaze attack and warns of losses.
He faced questions about a memo suggesting federal employees could miss back pay, asserting he follows the law today.
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer urged Trump to intervene; House Speaker Mike Johnson said military pay would be protected, with government reopening.

1 / 2