House Republicans look to pass two-step package to avoid partial government shutdown

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House Republicans are preparing a two-part plan to avert a partial government shutdown, as detailed by House Speaker Mike Johnson. He proposed extending funding for specific agencies and programs until January 19, with others extended until February 2. This approach, diverging from the typical practice of uniform funding extensions, arises from GOP concerns about large spending bills during the holiday season.

Johnson emphasized the importance of this strategy for securing conservative achievements, highlighting its divergence from the usual practice of introducing substantial spending bills just before the Christmas recess.

The proposed bill does not include funding requested by President Biden for Israel, Ukraine, and the U.S.-Mexico border. Johnson believes this separation will strengthen the GOP’s stance on fiscal responsibility and policy reform, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine and border policy.

Despite their general reluctance towards temporary funding measures, hardline conservatives have shown some flexibility towards Johnson’s proposed continuing resolution (CR). This measure is seen as a necessary step to allow more time for long-term budget negotiations.

However, Rep. Chip Roy expressed strong opposition to this plan on Twitter, criticizing its continuation of spending levels and policies set by the previous administration. The White House also criticized the proposal, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre labeling it unrealistic and a potential threat to national security and domestic programs. She urged House Republicans to resolve their internal disagreements and work cooperatively to avoid a shutdown.

The current government funding operates under the previous year’s levels set by a Democrat-led House and Senate. Following the end of the fiscal year on September 30, Congress had passed a 47-day CR, leading to significant consequences including the removal of Kevin McCarthy as Speaker. This turmoil underscored the divisions within the Republican party over policy and spending priorities, which continued to impact legislative processes, such as the recent withdrawal of two spending bills due to insufficient support.

Johnson’s proposal, as outlined in a document obtained by The Big Big News, includes extending funding for four key spending bills until January 19, covering veterans, transportation, housing, agriculture, and energy. The remaining eight bills, including defense and Homeland Security, would be extended until February 2.

Johnson, having assumed office less than three weeks ago, is dealing with a challenging budget situation and is now focused on passing a CR to avoid a shutdown.

Adding to the urgency, Moody’s Investors Service recently downgraded the U.S. government’s debt outlook to “negative,” citing rising interest rates and congressional polarization. House Republicans attribute this change to the soaring national debt, now exceeding $33 trillion, and the increasing burden of interest costs. In response, Johnson announced the GOP’s commitment to bipartisan fiscal restraint, starting with the establishment of a debt commission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Government Shutdown Plan

More about Government Shutdown Plan

• House Republicans’ Two-Part Funding Strategy
• Speaker Mike Johnson’s Funding Proposal
• Biden’s Funding Requests Excluded
• Mixed Reactions to GOP Funding Plan
• Moody’s Downgrade and Fiscal Impact
• Political Dynamics in the Republican Party