Story perspectives

Ted Cruz Bets Schumer Will Trigger 2026 Shutdown

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sen. Ted Cruz wagered $100 that Minority Leader Chuck Schumer will trigger a shutdown on Oct. 1, 2026, before midterms.
Lawmakers say Democrats will block funding, causing a shutdown on Sept. 30.
Cruz warned DHS could stop paying salaries next month, citing Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
Sen. Kennedy attached Prevent Government Shutdowns Act and Shutdown Fairness Act to bill as a poll shows President Donald Trump’s approval at 40.8% and disapproval at 56.3%.

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Story summary

Sen. Ted Cruz wagered $100 that Minority Leader Chuck Schumer will trigger a shutdown on Oct. 1, 2026, before midterms.
Lawmakers say Democrats will block funding, causing a shutdown on Sept. 30.
Cruz warned DHS could stop paying salaries next month, citing Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
Sen. Kennedy attached Prevent Government Shutdowns Act and Shutdown Fairness Act to bill as a poll shows President Donald Trump’s approval at 40.8% and disapproval at 56.3%.