The Daily Punch White House: We’re ready for a long shutdown
Oct 14, 2025
The White House braces for a lengthy government shutdown, with strategies in place to maintain essential services. Key topics include plans to use Section 32 funds for WIC and the administration's approach to ride out opposition from Democrats. Also discussed is the potential for President Trump to step in and the looming pressure points that could compel negotiations. Additionally, a quirky highlight features Senator Jim Justice's extravagant daily commute via private jet.
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Administration Preparing To Ride Out Shutdown
- The White House is actively preparing to sustain a prolonged shutdown by finding alternative funding streams for key programs.
- That reduces near-term pressure on Republicans and likely prolongs the standoff into November.
Using Alternative Funds To Soften Pain
- The administration plans to pay certain workers and keep WIC running using alternative funds like Section 32 tariff revenue.
- Funding those programs removes immediate pain points and weakens incentives to negotiate quickly.
Strategy Lowers Incentive To Negotiate
- The White House strategy appears aimed at forcing Democrats to fold rather than engaging in negotiation.
- That dynamic makes both sides less pressured and makes resolution less likely in the near term.