President Trump forcefully challenged CBS News reporter Norah O’Donnell during an interview, dismissing claims of the “longest government shutdown” as a Democratic responsibility. When O’Donnell inquired about ending the shutdown, Trump asserted that Republicans unanimously support reopening the government while Democrats consistently oppose it. He stated, “All they have to do is say ‘let’s vote,’” emphasizing Republican unity.

In subsequent remarks, Trump rejected efforts to end the shutdown through what he called “extortion,” accusing Democrats of losing direction. He criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer as a “basketcase” and reiterated calls for Republicans to utilize the nuclear option to eliminate the filibuster. Trump argued that ending the filibuster would enable passage of policies like voter ID laws and accelerate legislative progress, warning that Democrats would act swiftly if given the chance. He urged Republicans to adopt a firm stance, describing Democratic lawmakers as “crazed lunatics” unwilling to address the crisis.

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