Trump defends unpaid air traffic controllers amid shutdown, threatens pay cuts despite safety risks and a Senate deal.

Trump downplayed concerns about air traffic controllers working without pay during the 40+ day government shutdown, claiming back pay would come later. He criticized absent controllers, urged returns, and promised $10,000 bonuses without specifying funding, contradicting a 2019 law requiring retroactive pay. His remarks coincided with FAA flight cancellations over staffing shortages. Meanwhile, the Senate passed a bill to reopen government and restore SNAP benefits, which Trump opposed, citing work disincentives.