Trump Accuses Schumer of Demanding Over $1 Billion to Approve Judicial Nominations

President Donald Trump publicly accused Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of demanding over $1 billion in exchange for approving certain judicial nominations. In a social media post Saturday evening, Trump claimed that negotiations had stalled, leading him to call an end to the session and instruct Republicans to reject the Democrats' demands. Despite bipartisan support for approximately 60 judicial candidates, progress was hindered as Democrats linked their approval to the unfreezing of foreign aid and NIH funding. Trump characterized Schumer's demand as political extortion and urged Republicans to stand firm. Schumer responded by asserting that Democrats prevented unqualified nominations from advancing. Meanwhile, Senator Markwayne Mullin announced plans to push for changes to Senate rules, suggesting a strategy to facilitate future confirmations without compromises. The impasse highlights ongoing partisan struggles over judicial appointments and legislative priorities.