After a month-long shutdown, President Donald Trump has officially announced that a deal has been reached, signalling the end of the ongoing Federal Government shutdown. "I am very proud to announce today that we have reached a deal to end the shutdown and reopen the federal government," says Trump, during a speech atRose Garden. "As everyone knows I have a very powerful alternative but I didn't want to use it at this time. Hopefully it will be unnecessary." He is, of course, referring to declaring a national emergency, a move many standing in opposition would deem extreme.
"I want to thank all of the federal workers and their amazing families who have shown such extraordinary devotion in the face of this recent hardship," he continues. "You are fantastic people. You are incredible patriots." In the meantime, talks surrounding the Border Wall are set to continue. CNN confirms that a "Stopgap" was put into effect, that would keep the government funded until February 15th. After that, it's difficult to guess what might happen.
Many federal workers have missed out on two pay periods, and as of now, there doesn't appear to be a concrete resolution where backpay is concerned. Still, the news is a welcome step forward, even though there remains much work to be done. If a deal surrounding the border wall is not reached in three week's time, Trump may very well move forward with the national emergency card.
