Trump Freezes Chicago Transit Funding as Shutdown Deepens

The Trump administration froze $2.1 billion in transit funding for Chicago on Friday, escalating its pressure campaign on Democratic-led cities. The freeze came as the U.S. government shutdown entered its third day, with no resolution in sight.

Funding Block Targets Democratic Strongholds

Budget director Russ Vought said the money, set aside for Chicago’s elevated train lines, was paused to prevent “race-based contracting.” So far, the administration has blocked at least $28 billion in funding for Democratic states and cities.

The White House also signaled it may withhold funds from Portland, Oregon, which saw major protests during Trump’s first term. Transit projects in New York and green-energy projects in California and Colorado have also been halted this week.

Political Fallout in Illinois

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, a frequent Trump critic and possible 2028 presidential candidate, condemned the move. He called the freeze “hostage-taking,” warning that it hurts the economy and working families who rely on public transit.

Chicago has long been one of Trump’s top rhetorical targets. The president has repeatedly criticized the city and threatened to deploy the National Guard.

Shutdown Deadlock in Washington

The standoff in Congress shows no sign of progress. The Senate planned votes on rival funding bills Friday, but neither the Democratic nor Republican proposals were expected to pass. If the shutdown stretches into Saturday, it will become the fifth-longest in U.S. history.

The impasse has frozen about $1.7 trillion in agency funds, roughly one-quarter of the federal budget. Essential spending on health, retirement programs, and debt payments continues.

Public Services Hit

The shutdown has disrupted scientific research, financial oversight, and federal services. Around 2 million federal workers are going unpaid, though “essential” staff like airport screeners and military personnel remain on duty.

The Labor Department also delayed its monthly unemployment report, leaving Wall Street without key economic data. If the shutdown lasts beyond mid-October, federal employees will miss their first paycheck.

Broader Economic Concerns

Economists warn a prolonged shutdown could hit air travel, food aid, and federal courts. The longest U.S. government shutdown lasted 35 days in 2018–2019, also under Trump.

Meanwhile, Democrats insist any new spending package must include an extension of pandemic-era healthcare subsidies. Republicans argue that issue should be debated separately. Polls show nearly 80% of Americans want those subsidies to continue.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said he supports Trump’s pressure tactics. “Is he trying to apply pressure? Probably, yes. And I applaud that,” Johnson told reporters.