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US faces shutdown as Musk didn't 'keep his mouth shut'

The Independent

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December 21, 2024

Politicians enraged by billionaire's influence over Trump

- ERIC GARCIA

US faces shutdown as Musk didn't 'keep his mouth shut'

Politicians on Washington's Capitol Hill were scrambling last night to avoid a government shutdown after Elon Musk torpedoed a spending deal at the behest of president-elect Donald Trump – a move that could cost public workers including troops their Christmas pay.

Senators on both sides expressed dismay after the billionaire and Mr Trump criticised an expenditure bill and forced Republicans in the House of Representatives to scrap a continuing resolution that would have kept government open until March.

Democratic Sen Jon Ossoff was angry that the lack of legislation had delayed crucial assistance to victims of Hurricane Helene and Milton in his home state of Georgia. “Disaster relief and economic assistance for Georgia farmers would already be on the way if Elon Musk could keep his mouth shut,” he told The Independent.

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