If Trump does not back down or declare an emergency, it seems likely that Pelosi will have to make her difficult decision on the State of the Union, which is now less than two weeks away.

While the White House has not responded formally to Pelosi’s postponement request, top administration officials have sent signals that they’re forging ahead with the idea that the speech will proceed as scheduled.

Leaders of the Homeland Security Department and Secret Service — which have both been affected by the partial shutdown — asserted this week that they’ll have the resources to ensure the Capitol is secure during the high-profile address, even if parts of the government remain unfunded at the time.