As the partial government shutdown continues over President Donald Trump’s demand for funding for a border wall with Mexico, Long Islanders are wondering if it’s worth it.

The president is asking for $5 billion, which Democrats have refused to provide.

“He should give up on the wall,” says Sharon Emmer, of Plainview.

MORE: Trump, Democrats trade blame in 2nd weekend of shutdown 

Pedro La Rosa, of Plainview, says he was born in Cuba and went through the process of becoming an American citizen the legal way. He says everyone else should, too.

“There's a certain way you should come into this country…that's the legal way, the proper way,” he says.

Patrick Young works with the Central American Refugee Center helping immigrants apply for U.S. citizenship. He says building a wall is not the answer.

“We have had solutions from both Democrats and Republican congresses and presidents, but Trump is not looking at solutions. He's looking at blowing up the immigration system,” says Young.

The government shutdown has left nine government departments, including Homeland Security, without spending authorization. Some federal employees are on furlough while others are working without pay as the new year approaches.

Rep. Peter King told News 12 in a statement, “The president and Democratic leaders must find a compromise and fund it quick. Both sides have to give; 800,000 federal workers should not be held hostage."

President Trump says Democrats have walked away from the negotiating table. Democrats say the White House has not reached out in weeks. The House and Senate plan to reconvene on Monday.