On October 22, 2025, as the government shutdown entered its fourth week, President Trump invited Republican senators to a lunch in the newly renovated White House Rose Garden on Tuesday, October 21st. The lunch symbolized Republican unity in the face of the government shutdown stalemate and served as a call for Democratic senators to vote to reopen the government.
The weather was cool and sunny, with Trump’s favorite songs “YMCA” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” playing in the Rose Garden, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Over fifty Republican senators attended the luncheon, although Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, who had previously voted against a short-term spending bill, was notably absent.
During his speech, President Trump stated, “Over a million federal employees are not getting paid. Many children and tourists are unable to visit museums in Washington, D.C. The streets are clean and safe, but the museums are closed. We should reopen them.”
The Democrats hope to include their demands in the appropriations bill, such as extending tax credits under the expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA), while Republicans want Democrats to vote to reopen the government before negotiating on healthcare insurance.
“I urge every Democratic senator to stop this madness and let the country return to normal,” the President said. “This is the most brilliant moment in American history in terms of wealth, employment, and investment, yet Democrats have shut down the government.”
Earlier, Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized that the Republicans were united on this issue and stated that Trump was willing to discuss issues such as health insurance subsidies with the Democrats after reopening the government.
During the lunch, Trump also mentioned that the White House had recently completed the renovation of the Rose Garden and is constructing a 90,000-square-foot “world-class banquet hall,” funded out of his own pocket. In a relaxed atmosphere, Trump reiterated his commitment to give his all in the midterm elections to ensure that policy achievements are not overturned by the “radical left.”