President Donald Trump said on Aug. 13 that he is prepared to meet with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to negotiate federal appropriations ahead of the 30 September funding deadline, which, if missed, would trigger a partial government shutdown. Trump accused Democratic leaders of resisting talks, asserting that "more than half" of congressional Democrats are "sane" but "led by insane people." He also claimed the minority party is "unwilling to meet and discuss anything," even as he maintained that he remains open to negotiations. The remarks underscore the fragile state of budget discussions as lawmakers face just seven weeks to craft and pass spending legislation for the next fiscal year. While the White House’s willingness to engage could avert a shutdown, Trump’s combative characterization of Democratic leadership may complicate prospects for a bipartisan agreement.