(01-11-2019, 07:51 AM)The Real Marty Wrote:

(01-10-2019, 10:08 PM)MalabarJag Wrote: First off, it takes two sides to shut down the government. The Dems can just toss $5B to fund the wall and the government would re-open. Even if the $5B is 100% waste (and it wouldn't be), it's a drop in the bucket of the trillions of dollars of government waste.

Secondly, those non-essential government workers are free to leave and find another job. There are plenty of businesses looking for competent employees. Or maybe they couldn't find a job because they aren't competent employees.

Yes, it takes two sides to shut down the government.  But when one side says, "I will take responsibility for the shutdown" that's pretty stupid, because it gives the other side even less incentive to negotiate.  Sure, the dems can toss $5 billion towards a wall and end the shutdown, but why would they, when Trump has stated that he is willing to take all the blame?  This is just further evidence that Trump is one of the worst negotiators ever.  

And secondly, it is true that the TSA and the National Park Service are non-essential.  Unless, of course, you want to be able to fly overseas or you want to visit the national parks.  In my case, I'm going to be flying overseas pretty soon, and I don't want to get highjacked or stand in endless lines for security screenings or customs.