President Trump's incoming acting chief of staff says the partial U.S. government shutdown could extend into the New Year, when the new Congress is seated.
Speaking on Fox News Sunday, Mick Mulvaney expressed doubts that any progress would be made on the budget for border security - the cause of the shutdown.
He said the White House gave an offer to the Democrats over the weekend and is waiting for a reply.
Meanwhile, President Trump stood firm on his push for a wall along America's southern border.
In a tweet, he wrote the wall was needed to stop what he called criminal elements.
The Democrats have no incentive to meet Trump's demand of five billion dollars before they take control of the House on January third.