Donald Trump has reiterated his threat to shut down the US government if Congress does not provide additional funding for border security, including his proposed border wall. Speaking at a joint press conference with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, Trump said he would have 'no problem' with a shutdown, stating, 'It's time we had border security.'
The threat comes as federal funding expires at the end of September, just weeks before the November midterm elections. A shutdown would be the third under Republican control of the White House, House, and Senate, potentially harming Republican candidates in tight races. Trump has previously requested $25bn for the wall but said he has no 'red line' and will 'always leave room for negotiation.'
Trump praised Conte for his 'firm stance' on border security, noting the Italian leader's hardline immigration policies. Conte, a political outsider and populist, has pushed for the EU to accept migrants crossing the Mediterranean and supported Trump's idea of inviting Russia back into the G7.
Trump also outlined other immigration priorities, including ending the visa lottery programme, stopping 'catch and release' practices, and shifting to a merit-based system. He echoed a tweet stating he would shut down government if Democrats do not support border security measures.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said a shutdown will not happen, but acknowledged border funding may not be resolved before the elections. House Speaker Paul Ryan noted the president is 'willing to be patient' to secure the funding.
During the press conference, Trump also offered to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions, saying, 'I would meet with Iran if they wanted to meet. No preconditions.'
