A short time after President Donald Trump said he would shut down the government if he does not get the funding he wants for a border wall, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said that might be a bad idea.
Trump made the remark during a White House meeting — part of which was broadcast on television — with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer around midday Tuesday.
"I hope that's not where we end up – I understand it was a rather spirited meeting," McConnell told reporters on Capitol Hill.
"I'd still like to see a smooth ending here, and I haven't given up hope that's what we'll have."
McConnell noted whoever is to blame for a government shutdown, Americans will come away unhappy.
"One thing I think is pretty clear, no matter who precipitates the government shutdown is the American people don't like it.
"I hope that will be avoided and both sides understand that's not a great way to end what has, in my opinion, been the most successful Congress, right of center, in decades."
Trump said during Tuesday's fiery meeting he would like $5 billion in funding for a border wall between the United States and Mexico. Democrats have offered to give him $1.3 billion, which Trump said would not be enough.
Funding for some government agencies will expire Dec. 21, at which point a partial government shutdown will occur if a spending deal is not reached.
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