President Donald Trump has accused Senate Democrats, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, of using the confirmation process for his executive nominees as leverage for a $2 billion funding deal. The allegations have intensified the ongoing dispute between the White House and Capitol Hill, with Trump labeling the Democrats as ‘crazed lunatics.’
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Democrats are holding up the confirmation of over 150 nominees in exchange for financial commitments. He alleged that the process has been manipulated to extract funds, a strategy his allies have described as ‘political extortion.’
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has been in ongoing negotiations with Schumer to find a resolution, but the talks have stalled with both sides using intermediaries to communicate. Thune has expressed frustration, stating that the current process is broken and that significant bipartisan conversations are needed to reform it.
Historically, nominees have been confirmed quickly by voice vote or unanimously, but Democrats have reportedly introduced roll-call votes on many of the current nominees, signaling a shift in their approach. Thune indicated that the Democrats are ‘dug in’ on their position, making progress difficult.
Trump’s accusations come amid a broader standoff over the confirmation of nominees, with the Senate leaving for an August recess without reaching a deal. This has led to further tensions, with Trump threatening to take drastic action against Schumer if the situation does not improve.