WASHINGTON — In a surprising turn of events, President-elect Donald Trump dismissed a bipartisan proposal on Wednesday aimed at preventing a government shutdown during the Christmas season. He directed House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans to renegotiate the plan just days before a crucial deadline for federal funding.
Trump’s unexpected involvement and new stipulations have thrown Congress into disarray as lawmakers strive to finalize their work and return home for the holidays. This places Johnson under pressure to devise a viable alternative before the looming Friday deadline to maintain government operations.
In a joint statement, Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance stressed the need for Republicans to be “SMART and TOUGH.” The president-elect suggested a plan that included both the continuation of government funding and a controversial proposal to increase the nation’s debt limit, which has often been opposed by his own party. They asserted that any other approach would essentially betray the nation.
Democrats voiced strong criticism of the Republican resistance to the temporary funding measure, which also included approximately $100 billion in disaster assistance for states affected by natural disasters such as Hurricanes Helene and Milton. “House Republicans have been instructed to shut down the government,” declared House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. He further added, “By breaking the bipartisan agreement, they must take responsibility for the aftermath.”
The extensive 1,500-page plan was already facing significant challenges as hardline conservatives rejected the proposed increase in spending. This opposition was amplified by Trump’s ally, billionaire Elon Musk, who criticized the plan soon after its release on Tuesday night. Many congressional members expressed their frustrations over the proposed extra spending, which included pay raises that had not been seen in over a decade.
Adding to the complications, the inclusion of vital disaster relief funds totaling about $100.4 billion for states ravaged by disaster did little to sway the budget-conscious Republicans. Musk expressed his disapproval on his social media platform, cautioning against approval of the bill.
For Johnson, the current circumstances are reflective of the difficulties faced by previous Republican House speakers. Unable to convince their majority to support routine federal operations, the current mess poses a significant challenge for the party as they prepare to take control of the House, Senate, and White House in the upcoming year.
As confusion reigns amidst uncertainty over Trump’s directions, retiring Sen. Mitt Romney sarcastically questioned what the president-elect expected: should they vote for the continuing resolution or face a government shutdown?
Musk, leading the new Department of Government Efficiency, intensified his opposition to the bill, threatening political consequences for any legislator who supports the inflated spending proposal. Given Musk’s considerable influence and financial backing, his warning carries weight in political circles.
Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland commented on the inherent risks within a system dominated by wealthy individuals with coercive financial power. Negotiations led by Democrats had resulted in the current funding package, and they would likely need to muster support to aid Johnson in securing its passage. The federal funding deadline arrives at midnight on Friday.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stressed the urgency for Congress to act promptly. The proposed package would extend current government programs and services for several months, until March 14, 2025.
This stopgap measure has become essential due to Congress’s failure to pass annual appropriations bills to support various federal agencies, including the Pentagon and other domestic services. As the fiscal year concluded on September 30, lawmakers opted to postpone the issue by enacting a temporary funding bill set to expire soon.
The comprehensive bill also aims to tackle additional legislative initiatives while some officials prepare to leave office in the new year. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., referred to the legislation as a “junk sandwich,” while the Freedom Caucus chair, Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., noted dissatisfaction regarding the week’s developments.
Concerns regarding a potential pay raise were also raised, with some lawmakers worried that lifting the previously imposed pay freeze might allow for an adjustment of 3.8% or $6,600 in 2025, bringing their annual compensation to $180,600. Since 2009, congressional salaries have remained unchanged, and if not for the freeze, they would have increased to an estimated $217,900 today. Hence, the adjusted salaries represent a 31% decrease when factoring in inflation since then.
Several elements within the package include full funding for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which collapsed after being struck by a cargo vessel, and a provision to transfer land from federal ownership for a potential new Washington Commanders stadium.
In health-related proposals, the legislation seeks to extend telehealth coverage for Medicare recipients and regulate the profits of pharmacy benefit managers. Additionally, measures aimed at countering China’s influence are outlined, continuing President Biden’s executive actions to curtail investments in countries posing national security threats, an issue that fosters bipartisan consensus.
