Senate Democrats Block Bills to Fight Against Trump's Decisions
Democratic senators are using stronger tactics to oppose President Trump's choices for government jobs.
Senate Democrats have started blocking more bills in Congress to fight against President Donald Trump's decisions. They stopped a law about government spying that both parties usually support together. The Democrats are angry about Trump picking Bill Pulte to run the nation's spy agencies. This happened in Washington as lawmakers prepared to leave for the weekend.
The Democrats' new approach is much stronger than last year. Back then, Democratic leader Chuck Schumer got criticized by his own party for working with Republicans. Now Democrats have forced the government to shut down twice. They have also slowed down Trump's picks for government jobs. This new strategy is risky because it can hurt government programs that people need.
Republicans say this is very dangerous for the country's safety. They worry about letting the spy law expire during busy times. Millions of people are coming to America for World Cup games. The country is also getting ready for its 250th birthday celebrations. Republicans think this puts Americans at risk from terrorist attacks.
But Democrats say they have no other choice. They believe Trump is governing badly and causing these problems. Virginia Senator Mark Warner leads the Democrats on the Intelligence Committee. He said the situation is dangerous but didn't have to happen this way. Democrats are upset because Trump picked Pulte, who doesn't have much experience with national security.
We cannot extend these capabilities if the president is making clear that he's going to use them not to protect the nation, but to protect himself politically.
Comprehension quiz preview
1. Who did President Trump pick to run the nation's spy agencies?
2. What does 'expire' mean in this article?
3. Why are Democrats blocking the spy law?