Trump Largely Absent as Government Shutdown Enters Day One

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the first day of a government shutdown during his second term, President Donald Trump has largely remained out of public view. This absence from the spotlight starkly contrasts with his typical public engagements.

CNN anchor Erin Burnett opened her show, ‘OutFront,’ remarking on Trump’s notable silence. ‘We have not seen Trump today. We have not heard from Trump today. We haven’t heard his voice,’ she stated. As the shutdown enters its 19th hour, Burnett noted, ‘There is no sign of the president of the United States.’

Burnett referred to a series of recent appearances by Trump, including signing executive orders and attending state dinners, emphasizing his preference for being visible. According to her, Trump’s absence could indicate a strategic decision to distance himself from the shutdown. CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny echoed this sentiment.

‘[Trump’s absence] signals first and foremost, he does not want to be out front or the face of this shutdown,’ Zeleny explained. ‘Of course that could change and likely will change as the hours and days go forward.’

Zeleny also shared that while Trump has not been publicly engaged, his administration is taking action behind the scenes. The administration is reportedly moving to withhold approximately $26 billion in previously approved funding, which is predominantly directed towards Democratic-leaning states.

Officials believe there is potential to gain support from some Democrats for the GOP’s government funding proposal, as the financial impact of the shutdown grows. Zeleny mentioned, ‘They believe that the pain point is significant enough.’

When asked for comments on Trump’s absence, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson referenced the administration’s desire for a clean continuing resolution. ‘The Trump Administration wants a straightforward and clean CR to continue funding the government – the exact same proposal that Democrats supported just 6 months ago,’ she said.

Jackson implied that Democratic demands are responsible for the shutdown, criticizing a perceived ‘radical agenda’ that was previously rejected by voters.

Despite the controversy surrounding the budget proposal, experts suggest Trump’s decision to remain silent may also be a tactic to avoid escalating conflicts with Democrats. Former Washington Post columnist Philip Bump stated, ‘It may be a reflection, too, that he’s distracted by something else.’

Later in the day, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung highlighted Trump’s upcoming OANN interview, which he claimed would draw a larger audience than CNN. He criticized Burnett’s show, suggesting it may face cancellation due to poor ratings and alleged misinformation.