House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has introduced a short-term funding bill to prevent a government shutdown at the end of next week and keep operations running through September. The bill includes a defense spending increase and cuts to non-defense discretionary spending while omitting additional emergency funding, disaster designations, or earmarks. President Trump has expressed support for the bill and promised to sign it if it reaches his desk.
The bill has not been negotiated with Democrats, making it uncertain if it will pass in either chamber, posing a significant test for the new Republican trifecta that must garner bipartisan support for the bill to become law. House Democrats have criticized the legislation, warning that it could lead to spending cuts in crucial areas like health care and veterans benefits. The opposition from Democrats increases the likelihood of a government shutdown, as just two Republican defections could derail the bill due to the slim majority in the House.
Senate Republicans would need to secure seven Democratic votes to reach the 60-vote threshold to overcome a filibuster if the bill passes the House. Senate Democrats have also criticized the bill, expressing concerns about Trump and billionaire Elon Musk gaining more power over federal spending decisions. Both parties are seeking to avoid a shutdown, but their differences in approach could lead to potential delays in passing important legislation. A shutdown would impact millions of federal workers across the country.
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