Trump, Schumer Clash Over Senate Confirmations Stalemate

President Donald Trump has accused Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats of 'extortion' for demanding up to $2 billion in federal funding in exchange for confirming over 140 of Trump's pending nominees. Democrats have used procedural delays to press for additional funding for agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and foreign aid programs. Schumer publicly defended the Democrats' actions, citing concerns over the qualifications of Trump's nominees and criticizing the president's negotiation approach after talks broke down and the Senate entered recess. The deadlock has left key ambassadorial and executive positions unfilled as a crucial government funding deadline approaches. Trump has urged Republicans to change Senate rules to allow confirmations by a simple majority. Both parties continue to blame each other for the ongoing impasse.