President Donald Trump said Thursday he is working with budget director Russell Vought to identify “Democrat” agencies for potential cuts after Congress failed to pass a funding bill, triggering a partial government shutdown.

Trump framed the standoff as an opportunity to target what he called “political scams,” hinting at possible layoffs and permanent reductions, Fox News has reported.

He argued Democrats forced the shutdown to protect progressive priorities, while Vice President JD Vance and White House officials accused Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of caving to pressure from the party’s left and prioritizing healthcare for undocumented immigrants over avoiding a shutdown.