By Michael D. Carroll
Breaking News Editor
President-elect Donald Trump suggested Thursday that Congress should eliminate the debt ceiling altogether, just a day after opposing a deal reached by lawmakers to avoid a government shutdown.
In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump called the removal of the debt ceiling the "smartest thing [Congress] could do," adding, "I would support that entirely."
"The Democrats have said they want to get rid of it. If they want to get rid of it, I would lead the charge," Mr. Trump added.
"It doesn't mean anything, except psychologically," he said.
His remarks marked a significant shift in the ongoing debate about fiscal policy and government funding.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.