Trump Urges Republicans Nuclear Option Amid Prolonged US Government Shutdown Affecting Millions

President Donald Trump has called on Republicans to use the "Nuclear Option" to end the ongoing government shutdown by eliminating the Senate filibuster, a move that would allow legislation to pass with a simple majority. The shutdown, now lasting nearly a month, has led to critical consequences including the expiration of food stamp funding for over 41 million Americans and rising health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act. Despite ongoing negotiations among rank-and-file senators from both parties to temporarily reopen the government and reach longer-term funding agreements, GOP leaders remain firm on not negotiating health care changes until the government reopens. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other key Republicans stress that Democrats must first agree to reopen the government, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticizes Trump for prioritizing politics over the needs of vulnerable populations. The shutdown has also caused financial stress for federal employees and operational challenges in sectors like air travel. Trump returned to the U.S. amid this crisis, facing intense political pressure as the shutdown reaches a critical point before the Thanksgiving holiday.