President Donald Trump has said he will ‘probably, almost definitely’ declare a national emergency to secure funds for his long-sought wall if he can’t reach an agreement with Democrats in Congress to provide the money.
“If this doesn’t work out, I’ll probably will do it, maybe definitely,” Trump told reporters at the White House.
Trump: “I have the absolute right to declare a national emergency. I haven’t done it yet. I may do it. If this doesn’t work out, probably I will do it. I would almost say definitely” pic.twitter.com/a0HzQNaNrF
— CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) January 10, 2019
Trump has held out for $5.7bn in partial wall funding in talks with congressional leaders, but Democrats have been steadfast in their opposition to providing any money for a border wall.
The dispute led to a shutdown of about one-quarter of US federal agencies when funding ran dry late last year.
If Trump were to declare an emergency in an effort to redirect funds Congress has approved for other purposes, it would be likely to lead to quick challenges in the courts.
Just left a meeting with Chuck and Nancy, a total waste of time. I asked what is going to happen in 30 days if I quickly open things up, are you going to approve Border Security which includes a Wall or Steel Barrier? Nancy said, NO. I said bye-bye, nothing else works!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2019
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