Speaker Mike Johnson announced a plan to bring a “clean” stopgap funding bill to a House vote to avoid a government shutdown, set to happen when federal funding ends next Friday. The bill would continue government funding for the current fiscal year. Bipartisan talks have stalled, and Johnson aims to pass the bill with only Republican support, which may be challenging due to a slim majority and potential defectors. The bill is facing opposition from Democrats who warn it could cut funding for health care, nutritional assistance, and veterans benefits. Additionally, near-term spending changes requested by the White House, like increased immigration enforcement funding and IRS cuts, are being considered.
Democrats want provisions to prevent President Trump and Elon Musk from unilaterally cutting spending directed by Congress. If the bill passes the Republican-controlled House, it would require the support of at least seven Democrats in the Senate. The situation is complicated by the upcoming midterm elections, with Democrats facing pressure to avoid funding cuts. Despite ongoing negotiations by House and Senate appropriators, it remains uncertain if a broader funding deal will be reached in time.
House Democrats have criticized the bill, labeling it partisan and damaging to essential services. Conversely, House Republicans and the NRCC argued that Democrats are pushing for a government shutdown. Meanwhile, key lawmakers are working to reach an agreement on appropriations bills before the fiscal year ends. However, the possibility of a full-year continuing resolution is still unclear, while some lawmakers favor passing individual appropriations bills instead.
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