Congressional leaders will head to the White House Monday amid low expectations from either party of avoiding at least a brief government shutdown, less than 48 hours before federal funding lapses

Congressional leaders are set to meet with the White House on Monday, but expectations are low for avoiding a government shutdown as federal funding is about to lapse. The president's agreement to the meeting comes amid signals from the White House that little will change, with the budget director already preparing agencies for potential layoffs. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing struggles in Congress to reach a consensus on budgetary issues, which could impact millions of Americans relying on government services.