President Donald Trump silences his mobile phone in the Oval Office of the White House. (AP)

The United States government shutdown entered its third day on Friday with no sign of progress. President Donald Trump said the funding lapse was an “opportunity” to cut back government, while Democrats pressed for permanent healthcare tax credits.

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Talks stall in the Senate

Negotiations in the Senate have failed to end the deadlock. Republicans want to pass a short-term funding bill to reopen government offices, but Democrats insist on guarantees that tax credits for health care will continue under the Affordable Care Act.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Democrats were repeatedly voting “no” and would have the weekend to reconsider.

Trump freezes billions i

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