Key Takeaways:
- Troops Will Be Paid: President Trump ordered the Pentagon to use $8 billion in unused research and development funds to ensure military members receive paychecks during the government shutdown.
- Shutdown Blame Game: The standoff stems from Democrats’ refusal to pass a funding bill without expanding Obamacare subsidies, despite Republican control of Congress.
- Leadership in Action: Trump vowed not to let Democrats “hold our Military and the Security of our Nation hostage,” showcasing decisive leadership amid Washington’s gridlock.
President Donald Trump announced Saturday that U.S. troops will receive their paychecks on time despite the ongoing government shutdown — a move he says will ensure America’s defenders “are never held hostage by political games.”
“I am using my authority, as Commander in Chief, to direct our Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to use all available funds to get our Troops PAID on October 15th,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
According to a Pentagon official, about $8 billion in unused research, development, testing, and evaluation funds will be redirected to cover salaries if the shutdown continues beyond mid-October. The administration framed the decision as a matter of national security, arguing that military readiness and morale must not be sacrificed for Washington’s partisan gridlock.
The announcement came on day 11 of the Democrat-driven shutdown, sparked by their refusal to support a spending bill unless it includes expanded Obamacare subsidies. Republicans, who control both chambers, have held firm on keeping government funding levels steady and reining in wasteful spending.
Trump blasted Democrats for “holding our Military, and the entire Security of our Nation HOSTAGE with their dangerous Government shutdown,” while signaling his openness to negotiate healthcare reforms once the government reopens.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has summoned Democrats back to Washington for a closed-door strategy session next week, but Speaker Mike Johnson has made it clear the House won’t reconvene until Democrats stop obstructing funding.
Trump’s message to America’s servicemembers is clear: politics will not stand between them and their pay.