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Sen. Kennedy Calls Funding Process a 'Clown Circus'

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) described government funding process as a "clown circus" during a partial shutdown.
He expects House and Senate to pass 11 of 12 appropriations bills by week’s end.
The Department of Homeland Security budget remains uncertain due to partisan divisions.
U.S. President Donald Trump urged bipartisan cooperation to reopen the government.
He expressed urgency to get the funding deal to his desk for immediate signing.

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Story summary

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) described government funding process as a "clown circus" during a partial shutdown.
He expects House and Senate to pass 11 of 12 appropriations bills by week’s end.
The Department of Homeland Security budget remains uncertain due to partisan divisions.
U.S. President Donald Trump urged bipartisan cooperation to reopen the government.
He expressed urgency to get the funding deal to his desk for immediate signing.