Trump: Give me votes for The Wall or I'll shut down the government!

In a new low for the President, Donald Trump has threatened a government shutdown if the Democrats in Congress do not allow him to have his way over hostile immigration policies, including the controversial wall on the US-Mexican border.

In a late night tweet, a pugnacious Trump wrote "I would be willing to 'shut down' government if the Democrats do not give us votes for Border Security, which includes the Wall!" He went on to decry the contribution of hardworking immigrants, saying "we need great people coming into our country".

This comes at a dangerous time for GOP members of congress; with the midterms just over three months away, a government shutdown would put hundreds of thousands of federal employees out of work and could cost Republican candidates vital support at the ballot box.

Democrat leaders were criticised after the government shutdown earlier this year ended, with some saying that they gave in to Trump's demands to easily. Many liberals will surely be encouraging Schumer and Pelosi to take a tough line on the administration over its handling of immigration, with the family separation policy still fresh in people's minds.

Although it may not come to a shutdown, this episode surely shows how divided the Republicans are before what may prove to be a 'blue wave' at this year's midterms.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he is "confident" a shutdown can be avoided. He had better do all he can to prevent one; he will loose his position and power to Chuck Schumer if the Democrats take the Senate in November.