The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday rejected a funding measure backed by Donald Trump, pushing the federal government closer to a shutdown as the weekend approaches. The proposed bill, which failed to secure the required two-thirds majority, saw opposition from 38 Republicans despite support from the president-elect.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., vowed to present a new funding solution before the midnight deadline on Friday. This comes after Trump dismissed a bipartisan funding agreement negotiated by GOP leaders and Democrats, citing criticism from tech billionaire Elon Musk.
The failed measure, defeated 235-174, sought to suspend the federal debt limit for two years while tying it to government funding. Opposition stemmed from differing party priorities: Republicans objected to increased spending, while Democrats criticized provisions they said would lead to tax cuts for the wealthy.
Key Developments Leading to a Shutdown
Budget Deadlock Since September:
Earlier efforts to pass a six-month funding extension failed, with Democrats opposing provisions like the SAVE Act, which would have required proof of citizenship for voting. A temporary bipartisan deal kept the government funded through Dec. 20.
Revised Spending Proposal:
Released just days before the holiday recess, the new 1,547-page bill proposed extending funding until March 14, 2024. It included $110 billion for disaster relief, $30 billion for farmers, and provisions like healthcare reforms and protections against deceptive advertising. However, criticism arose over left-leaning inclusions negotiated to gain Democratic support.
Trump and Musk’s Role in the Debate
Opposition to the proposed spending plan intensified after Musk’s public lobbying. On X, the social platform Musk owns, he denounced the measure, calling it “criminal” and urging lawmakers to reject it. His posts often contained misleading claims and rallied significant opposition.
In a joint statement, Trump and incoming Vice President J.D. Vance called for streamlined legislation that excluded Democratic-backed provisions. They also demanded either an elimination or significant raising of the federal debt ceiling.
What’s Next in the Funding Crisis
With no vote expected Thursday night, Congress reconvenes Friday morning, leaving less than 24 hours to avert a shutdown. Speaker Johnson, already facing intra-party dissent, acknowledged the urgency of finding bipartisan support.
“It’s very disappointing that House Democrats chose to oppose a measure they had previously agreed upon,” Johnson said.
However, Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, blamed Johnson for breaking earlier bipartisan agreements. “You break the bipartisan agreement, you own the consequences that follow,” Jeffries posted on X.
Impact of a Potential Shutdown
A shutdown would halt non-essential federal operations, affecting agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Park Service. Essential services, including air traffic control and border security, would continue. However, millions of federal employees risk missing paychecks, and programs like food stamps could face delays.
Challenges for Speaker Mike Johnson
The funding crisis poses a significant challenge for Speaker Johnson, whose position will be decided in an upcoming House vote. Johnson’s handling of the issue has drawn criticism from within his party, with some Republicans suggesting they may not back him for another term as Speaker.
This development comes amid a backdrop of GOP infighting, highlighted by the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy in October after similar budget disputes.
A BBC Report
