Satirical trading card showing Trump as a Puppetmaster pulling Congress's strings over a looming shutdown abyss, highlighting the high-stakes struggle over funding and policy control.

Puppetmaster Pat

Trump Raises Stakes as Congress Juggles Shutdown Deadline

Published September 30, 2025

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A satirical card depicting how Trump (via the Puppetmaster) looms over Congress, pulling strings on appropriations, debt ceiling, and policy riders - with a looming "Shutdown Abyss" below.

The Real Story

According to CNN, with the government funding deadline approaching, chances of a shutdown are rising. Trump is pushing lawmakers to take decisive steps, intensifying pressure in Congress to pass or block spending bills. The standoff centers on competing priorities, policy riders, and political leverage ahead of the funding deadline.

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