Trump-backed Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown Set for House Vote
The House of Representatives is gearing up for a crucial vote on a bill endorsed by President-elect Trump to prevent a looming government shutdown. This development follows a tumultuous two days in Congress, marked by internal discord among lawmakers over the course of action for government spending. Notably, Trump and his allies Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have weighed in on the matter, adding layers of complexity to the unfolding situation.
Chaos in Congress
The legislative frenzy unfolded after GOP hardliners, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, rebelled against an initial bipartisan agreement. This initial deal, which would have extended the government funding deadline till March 14, was mired in controversy due to the inclusion of numerous unrelated policy riders. The ensuing impasse prompted hurried negotiations on a revised bill, which is significantly more concise at 116 pages compared to its bulky predecessor of 1,547 pages.
Key Provisions in the Bill
The revised bill not only extends the government funding deadline but also suspends the debt limit – a move championed by Trump. This suspension, proposed for a two-year period until January 2027, aims to delay a contentious debate until after the 2026 Congressional midterm elections. Additionally, the bill earmarks around $110 billion for disaster relief aid, targeting individuals affected by storms Milton and Helene. Moreover, a provision to fund the reconstruction of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, damaged in a barge accident earlier this year, is also included in the proposal.
Opposition and Controversy
Despite Trump’s endorsement and calls for bipartisan cooperation, the bill faces stiff opposition from Democrats and conservative factions within the House. Democrats, feeling betrayed by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson for reneging on the initial bipartisan deal, have expressed strong dissent. On the other hand, members of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus have signaled their intent to vote against the bill, citing concerns over deficit spending and lack of structural reforms.
As the House gears up for this crucial vote, the fate of the bill hangs in the balance, with tensions running high and political stakes soaring. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding saga.