In Washington, a significant challenge to Republican unity looms as they prepare to vote on a crucial spending bill designed to prevent a partial government shutdown. The bill aims to ensure federal agencies remain funded through September. House Speaker Mike Johnson has scheduled the vote for potentially Tuesday, despite lacking Democratic support, effectively daring them to oppose and risk a looming shutdown if Congress doesn’t act by Saturday.
Republicans will require robust backing from their members in both chambers and a degree of support from Senate Democrats to advance the bill to the President’s desk. This vote represents a pivotal legislative challenge during the current presidential term. Speaker Johnson expressed optimism, asserting, “The CR will pass,” referring to the bill by its shorthand, the continuing resolution. “No one wants to shut the government down,” he added, emphasizing the Republican commitment to responsible governance while shifting pressure to Senate Democrats.
Former President Trump has thrown his weight behind the strategy, urging Republicans to “remain UNITED — NO DISSENT — Fight for another day when the timing is right.” The bill proposes a reduction of $13 billion in non-defense spending from the 2024 budget while increasing defense spending by $6 billion—essentially maintaining overall spending levels. However, it excludes significant expenditures like Social Security and Medicare, which operate outside the Congressional budget review process.
Democrats express concerns over the discretion the bill grants the Trump administration in spending decisions. They are wary of ongoing efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Trump adviser Elon Musk, to enact deep cuts, potentially fueled by this legislation. Representative Rosa DeLauro warned, “This is not a clean CR. This bill is a blank check for Elon Musk and President Trump.”
Typically, spending bills annex detailed funding instructions for vital programs, but the current legislation allows substantial leeway for the administration to adjust priorities, a prospect troubling to Democrats. They fear redirected funds away from critical issues like combating fentanyl toward initiatives such as mass deportation efforts.
Historically, ensuring government functioning required bipartisan cooperation, as Republicans often lack sufficient votes to pass spending bills independently. This time, Republican leaders push forward despite Democratic dissent, bolstered by Trump’s influence over party members, including the more conservative House Freedom Caucus, who voiced support, calling the CR a “paradigm shift.”
Still, dissent exists within Republican ranks, with Representative Thomas Massie opposed, citing ethical concerns over rising deficits. Trump targeted him online, calling Massie a “GRANDSTANDER” and suggesting he be challenged in primaries, with Trump’s encouraging leadership in such efforts.
House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole acknowledged the measure wasn’t his desirable outcome but called for an end to the series of provisional extensions keeping government operations afloat. This vote marks the third attempt for the ongoing budget year.
House Democrats have openly criticized the proposal, with leader Hakeem Jeffries insisting their party will resist Republican attempts potentially disadvantageous to Americans. The strategy among Senate Democrats appears one of waiting to see whether Republicans can succeed in the House before declaring their position.
While Senate Minority Leader John Thune highlighted that Democratic votes would be crucial in averting a shutdown, several Democratic senators criticized the GOP strategy for attempting to force through partisan resolutions. The measure’s advancement in the Senate would likely require cooperation from at least eight Democratic senators.
Anticipating potential failure in the Republican-led bill, Democrats offered an alternative solution extending government funding until April 11. This option could serve as a backup if the current proposal falters.
The bill might significantly impact the District of Columbia’s budgetary allocations, as district officials stressed during a news conference. They raised alarms over cuts necessitated by adherence to outdated funding levels in light of existing financial commitments, which would require significant service reductions.
Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized potential adverse effects on key focus areas like public safety, education, and economic growth. “If Congress proceeds, it contradicts a mutual priority of making Washington, D.C., a world-class capital,” she stated.
