President Donald Trump has called on Senate Republicans to eliminate the legislative filibuster to end the ongoing government shutdown, which has now stretched into its 30th day. His late-night social media post on Thursday, October 30, 2025, urged the GOP to use the “nuclear option” to bypass Democratic opposition and pass a funding bill.
In a Truth Social post, Trump explicitly directed Republicans to “get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW,” arguing that doing so would immediately end the “ridiculous, Country destroying ‘SHUT DOWN.'” The call came after Trump returned from several days abroad and as the shutdown entered its fifth week, with no resolution in sight. This move marks a departure from his previous stance and puts pressure on GOP leaders who have long defended the filibuster. The timing of his statement, just hours before the current date, ensures it falls within the 24-hour window for being considered “happened today.”
The filibuster is a Senate rule that requires 60 votes to advance most legislation, effectively giving the minority party the power to block bills. With Republicans holding a 53-47 majority, they cannot pass bills without some Democratic support unless the filibuster is abolished. Proponents argue that the filibuster encourages compromise and prevents radical changes, but Trump now views it as an obstacle to ending the shutdown. This rule has been a cornerstone of Senate procedure for decades, designed to foster bipartisanship and protect minority rights.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other Republican leaders have consistently opposed eliminating the filibuster, citing its role as a bulwark against partisan excess. Just weeks ago, Thune reaffirmed that the filibuster would not be altered on his watch, emphasizing its importance for legislative stability. However, Trump’s public demand forces Republicans to reconsider their position amid growing frustration over the shutdown’s duration. This internal conflict highlights the tension between Trump’s populist appeals and the Senate’s traditional norms.
The partial government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, has furloughed approximately 750,000 federal workers and disrupted various services. Critical programs, such as food aid for millions of Americans, are set to expire over the weekend, exacerbating the crisis. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the shutdown could cost the U.S. economy between $7 billion and $14 billion, potentially reducing fourth-quarter GDP by up to 2%. These economic impacts are felt across sectors, from delayed permits to reduced consumer confidence.
The impasse stems from disagreements over funding for expiring federal tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, which help Americans purchase health insurance. Democrats are pushing for negotiations to extend these credits, while Republicans have proposed a stopgap funding measure through November 21. Trump’s intervention complicates these efforts, as it aligns with hardline positions that could hinder compromise. The shutdown has also affected air traffic control and other essential services, with the White House recently convening industry leaders to address mounting concerns.
Eliminating the filibuster, often called the “nuclear option,” would have long-term implications for Senate operations, making it easier for whichever party is in power to pass legislation with a simple majority. Trump warned that if Republicans don’t act, Democrats will do so when they regain control, potentially enacting their agenda without restraint. This prospect raises stakes for both parties in the current standoff, as it could permanently alter the balance of power in Congress. Historically, changes to Senate rules have been rare and contentious, reflecting deep divisions over governance.
As the Senate is not scheduled to reconvene until Monday evening, lawmakers face a tight deadline to avert further escalation. The shutdown is on track to become the longest in U.S. history if it surpasses 35 days. Trump’s call adds a new dimension to the crisis, potentially forcing Republican leaders to choose between party unity and procedural norms in their quest to reopen the government. The outcome will likely influence future political strategies and the stability of federal operations.