Trump is using the government shutdown as an excuse to carry out large-scale layoffs of federal employees and freeze funding for certain Democratic policy agendas, essentially completing the unfinished business of D.O.G.E. Looking at the Senate's games during this period, it seems like the Republicans aren't making any concessions at all and are refusing to compromise with the Democrats. Tonight, White House economic advisor Hassett said the government shutdown might end sometime this week, but he immediately followed up by saying that if it doesn't, Trump might take even tougher measures. Honestly, if they really wanted the shutdown to end, the Republicans could make a small concession, and the spending bill might be passed by Democratic Senate leader Schumer. Previously, the passage of the "Big Beautiful Bill" put Schumer under immense pressure within the Democratic Party, which is why he's being so tough this time—otherwise, he wouldn't be able to answer to his party. If Trump makes a concession, Schumer would have a reason to compromise too. But right now, it looks like Trump isn't showing any signs of backing down. This isn't about whether they can, but whether they want to.