Republicans are shamelessly violating federal law by turning neutral agency sites into campaign billboards. HUD, USDA, DOJ, Treasury, SBA and TSA pushed partisan shutdown lines, and Education changed staff auto-replies without consent. Using appropriated funds for propaganda to sway Congress is clearly illegal and should trigger an Antideficiency Act response.
The Trump administration's messaging wasn't partisan — it was explanatory. During the shutdown, cabinet leaders like Secretary Scott Turner detailed real program disruptions like halted FHA loans, frozen tribal housing support and delayed repairs for families. His update rightfully blamed Democrats' obstruction for prolonging hardship, reflecting factual accountability, not political propaganda.
Shutdown theatrics are Washington's favorite pastime. From agency statements and blame-games to the Senate's eventual acquiescence, none of it actually serves the public. Both parties posture for cameras to win headlines, then quietly restore paychecks and perks. The fight is never about Americans — it's about optics, leverage and keeping power, not keeping promises.
There's a 50% chance that U.S. President Donald Trump will sign a continuing resolution or omnibus spending bill ending the government shutdown on Nov. 15, 2025, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
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